Pepper Jack Cottage Bagels

Name: Pepper Jack Cottage Bagels
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup cottage cheese; 1 cup shredded Pepper Jack cheese; 1 egg; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon baking soda

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Recipes

I have always loved the comforting aroma of fresh-baked bagels wafting through the kitchen. When I set out to make Pepper Jack Cottage Bagels, I aimed to create a delightful twist on a classic. The creamy cottage cheese adds moisture and richness while the spicy bite of pepper jack cheese takes them to a whole new level. These bagels are perfect for a cozy breakfast or a fun brunch with friends, and they are surprisingly easy to make at home!

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2026-01-25T16:33:27.542Z

I remember the first time I made these Pepper Jack Cottage Bagels; the combination of ingredients was inspired by my love of both spicy cheese and the soft, chewy texture of freshly baked bagels. As I mixed the dough, the scent of pepper jack mingled with the tangy notes of cottage cheese created a mouthwatering anticipation. It felt like my kitchen was transformed into a bakery!

One of the tricks I learned along the way is allowing the bagels to rest before boiling. This gives them a beautiful structure, ensuring they hold up well when they hit the boiling water. It’s a simple step but makes a world of difference in the texture, yielding bagels that are both soft inside and crisp outside.

Why You'll Love These Bagels
Deliciously spiced with pepper jack for the perfect kick
Creamy cottage cheese makes them incredibly soft
Great for breakfast, snacks, or your next brunch gathering

Understanding the Dough

The foundation of these Pepper Jack Cottage Bagels lies in the dough, which combines all-purpose flour and cottage cheese for a unique texture. The cottage cheese not only adds moisture but also contributes to the bagels’ tender crumb. As you mix the ingredients, take care not to over-knead; a smooth dough after about five minutes should retain some elasticity while being soft to the touch. This balance helps achieve the perfect bagel that isn’t too dense or crumbly.

When incorporating the shredded Pepper Jack cheese, consider shredding block cheese instead of using pre-packaged shreds. Freshly shredded cheese melts more uniformly and integrates better into the dough, enhancing the overall flavor. If you prefer a different flavor profile, feel free to substitute with Monterey Jack for milder taste or even a combination of spicy and mild cheeses for added complexity.

Shaping and Boiling Techniques

Shaping the bagels is where the fun begins! When forming the dough into bagels, avoid hastily creating rough shapes; instead, ensure each ball is smooth to promote even baking. When you poke a hole in the center, be mindful to make it larger than you think necessary, as the bagels will puff up while boiling and baking. A thumb-sized hole works best to guarantee that the shape remains intact throughout the cooking process.

Boiling the bagels is a crucial step in achieving that chewy texture typical of bagels. Adding baking soda to the boiling water raises the pH level, which helps develop the bagel's distinctive crust. Boil each bagel for 1-2 minutes per side; you're looking for a slightly glossy surface before they go into the oven. A common mistake is under-boiling, which can lead to bagels that are too doughy in the center, so stick to the timing for the best result.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started:

Bagel Dough

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup cottage cheese
1 cup shredded Pepper Jack cheese
1 egg
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda

These simple ingredients come together for a tasty treat!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your bagels:

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, cottage cheese, shredded Pepper Jack cheese, egg, sugar, and salt. Mix until a dough forms. Knead on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then poke a hole in the center with your thumb and stretch it gently to form a bagel shape.

Boil the Bagels

In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add baking soda. Gently drop bagels in batches into the boiling water, cooking for 1-2 minutes on each side. Remove and place on a baking sheet.

Bake the Bagels

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake bagels for 20 minutes or until golden brown. Allow them to cool on a wire rack before serving.

Your Pepper Jack Cottage Bagels are now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for unique flavors. You can also add toppings like sesame or poppy seeds before baking for extra texture and taste.

Serving Suggestions

These Pepper Jack Cottage Bagels are not just for breakfast – they make an excellent base for a savory sandwich. Consider adding slices of avocado, turkey, and a smear of cream cheese for a hearty lunch option. You could also pair these bagels with scrambled eggs and salsa for a delicious brunch dish. Their zesty flavor profile complements fresh herbs and spreads beautifully, opening the door to endless serving possibilities.

For a more decadent treat, toast the bagels and top them with a pat of butter and a sprinkle of sea salt or your favorite herb. The spice from the Pepper Jack paired with creamy toppings can make them an indulgent snack any time of the day, ideal for sharing with family or friends during casual gatherings or movie nights.

Storage and Freezing Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, these bagels can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They tend to lose their freshness quickly due to the moist nature of the cottage cheese, so consuming them soon after baking is best. Toasting future servings can help revive their delightful texture.

For longer storage, freeze the bagels after they’ve completely cooled. Wrap each bagel in plastic wrap and place them in a resealable freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature and pop them in the toaster or oven. This way, you can always have fresh-tasting bagels available without the hassle of making them from scratch on a whim!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, low-fat cottage cheese works well, but it may slightly alter the texture.

→ How can I store leftover bagels?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I make these bagels without cheese?

Absolutely! You can omit the cheese for a plain bagel or substitute with your favorite non-dairy cheese.

→ What can I serve them with?

These bagels are great on their own or served with cream cheese, avocado, or even a breakfast sandwich!