Spicy Jalapeño High-Protein Bagels

Name: Spicy Jalapeño High-Protein Bagels
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups high-protein flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast; 3/4 cup warm water; 1/2 cup chopped fresh jalapeños; 1 egg (for egg wash); Sesame seeds (optional for topping)

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I love making fresh bagels at home, and this recipe for Spicy Jalapeño High-Protein Bagels has quickly become a favorite. The combination of spicy jalapeños and protein-rich ingredients gives these bagels a unique twist that not only satisfies my cravings but also keeps me energized for the day. They are perfect for breakfast or a quick snack, and I find myself reaching for them repeatedly. The best part? They're surprisingly easy to make, allowing me to enjoy freshly baked bagels without the fuss.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-27T11:13:27.780Z

When I first combined spicy jalapeños with my high-protein bagel mix, I was surprised at how well the flavors melded. The slight heat from the jalapeños complements the dough perfectly, making each bite a delightful experience. After multiple trials, I found that adding them fresh rather than cooked gives the bagels a better crunch and a burst of flavor.

Another important tip I learned is to let them rest before baking. This allows the gluten to develop, ensuring a nice chewy texture that is often missing in homemade bagels. The result? A bagel that’s not only flavorful but also high in protein to fuel my busy mornings.

Why You'll Love These Bagels
Unique kick from fresh jalapeños
Protein-packed for a filling meal
Simple steps for homemade bagel goodness

Dough Consistency

Achieving the right dough consistency is crucial for making bagels that are both chewy and dense. When combining the ingredients, you want the dough to be slightly tacky but not overly sticky. If the dough sticks too much to your hands or work surface, gradually add a little more high-protein flour, a tablespoon at a time, while kneading until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. This process should take about 8-10 minutes of kneading; look for a glossy surface and a taut texture to know you’ve done it right.

During the kneading process, it's essential to develop the gluten properly. This gluten strength is what gives bagels their characteristic chewy bite. If you're new to bagel-making, it might feel like a workout, but the effort is worth it for that perfect texture. Use a stand mixer with a dough hook if you find kneading by hand challenging; just mix until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl.

Jalapeño Variation and Heat Level

The inclusion of fresh jalapeños in these bagels not only adds a unique, zesty flavor but also contributes to their overall nutritional profile with extra vitamins. Depending on your heat preference, you can adjust the amount of jalapeños you use. For a milder flavor, remove the seeds and membranes before chopping. Conversely, if you crave heat, leave the seeds intact or even consider adding diced serrano peppers for an added kick.

For those who like to experiment, don’t hesitate to mix in other ingredients like chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives. These additions can create a flavor-packed bagel that pairs well with cream cheese or avocado spread. Remember that baking time might vary slightly with extra ingredients; keep an eye on your bagels during the last few minutes in the oven to achieve that perfect golden color.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started:

Bagel Ingredients

2 cups high-protein flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast
3/4 cup warm water
1/2 cup chopped fresh jalapeños
1 egg (for egg wash)
Sesame seeds (optional for topping)

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for optimal results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your delicious bagels:

Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the high-protein flour, salt, sugar, and instant yeast. Gradually add the warm water and mix until a dough forms. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth.

Add Jalapeños

Fold in the chopped jalapeños until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into six equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then use your finger to create a hole in the center, forming the bagel shape.

Let Them Rise

Place the shaped bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them with a kitchen towel and let them rise for 20 minutes.

Boil the Bagels

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully place the bagels in the boiling water for about 1-2 minutes on each side. Remove and place back on the baking sheet.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Brush the bagels with beaten egg and sprinkle sesame seeds on top. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Allow your bagels to cool slightly before enjoying!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, feel free to add spices like cayenne pepper to the dough. Store leftover bagels in an airtight container to keep them fresh longer.

Storage and Reheating

Once your Spicy Jalapeño High-Protein Bagels have cooled, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Wrap each bagel individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for about three months. To enjoy, just thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat in a toaster or oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes until warmed through.

If you're reheating previously frozen bagels, a little tip is to sprinkle them with a bit of water before placing them in the oven. This creates steam, keeping the bagels moist while they reheat, and restores their chewy texture to perfection. Alternatively, using a microwave is quicker, but be cautious, as it can make bagels rubbery if overdone. A quick 20-30 seconds should suffice.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe for bagels can easily be scaled up or down based on your needs. If you're hosting a brunch or a gathering, doubling the batch is straightforward. Just ensure you have enough space in your kitchen and oven to accommodate the additional bagels. You can also divide the risen dough into smaller portions to experiment with different flavors or toppings, such as everything seasoning, poppy seeds, or even cheese.

When scaling down, remember that the boiling and baking times remain the same for fewer bagels; however, you might want to keep a closer watch on them in the oven. Depending on your oven’s calibration, smaller batches can bake a little faster. The key is to remove the bagels once they're a deep golden brown, regardless of the batch size.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use all-purpose flour instead of high-protein flour?

Yes, but the texture may be different. High-protein flour helps achieve a chewier bagel.

→ Can I make these bagels gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum.

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the freezer for longer freshness.

→ Can I add other toppings?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with different toppings like poppy seeds or everything bagel seasoning.