Cranberry Jalapeño Bagel Bombs (Print Version)

Tangy jalapeño-cranberry filling tucked inside golden, fluffy bagel dough. Great for festive sharing and appetizers.

# Ingredient List:

→ Dough

01 - 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
02 - 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
03 - 3/4 cup warm water (110°F)
04 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
05 - 1 teaspoon salt
06 - 1 tablespoon olive oil

→ Cranberry Jalapeño Dip Filling

07 - 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
08 - 1/3 cup dried cranberries, chopped
09 - 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely diced
10 - 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
11 - 1 tablespoon honey
12 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
13 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

→ Boiling & Topping

14 - 2 quarts water
15 - 2 tablespoons baking soda
16 - 1 egg, beaten
17 - 2 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning (optional)

# Steps:

01 - In a small bowl, combine warm water, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Let the mixture stand for about 5 minutes until foamy.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
03 - Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5 to 7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Place in an oiled bowl, cover, and allow to rise in a warm area for 60 minutes or until doubled.
04 - In a separate bowl, mix softened cream cheese, chopped dried cranberries, finely diced jalapeño, fresh cilantro, honey, salt, and black pepper until thoroughly blended. Chill until ready for use.
05 - Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
06 - Bring 2 quarts of water to a boil in a large pot. Carefully stir in baking soda.
07 - Punch down the risen dough and divide into 16 equal portions. Flatten each into a 3-inch disk.
08 - Place 1 heaping teaspoon of cranberry jalapeño filling in the center of each disk. Pinch and seal the dough tightly around the filling, gently rolling into a ball.
09 - Working in batches, carefully lower each bomb into the simmering baking soda water for 30 seconds, turning once. Remove with a slotted spoon and arrange on the prepared baking sheet.
10 - Brush each bomb with beaten egg and sprinkle everything bagel seasoning over the tops, if desired.
11 - Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

# Helpful Hints:

01 -
  • The combination of sweet cranberries and spicy jalapeño offers a unique flavor profile.
  • Perfect for entertaining and sure to impress guests at any gathering.
02 -
  • Leave some jalapeño seeds in the filling for extra heat if you like spice.
  • You can substitute dried cranberries with fresh just chop finely and reduce honey slightly.
03 -
  • Serve warm for the best flavor.
  • Pairs perfectly with sparkling wine or light lager for festive occasions.
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