Pin Soft golden bagel dough filled with tangy creamy cranberry jalapeño dip makes these bite sized bombs irresistible. They are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a unique appetizer bursting with sweet spicy and savory notes.
I loved baking these bagel bombs for my family last winter&s when everyone wanted something festive but not too heavy. Seeing people light up at their first bite was the best feeling as homemade dough and the creamy dip created such a delicious surprise inside.
Ingredients
- Dough: 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast 1 tablespoon granulated sugar ¾ cup warm water (110°F/43°C) 2 cups all purpose flour 1 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Cranberry Jalapeño Dip Filling: 4 oz cream cheese softened ⅓ cup dried cranberries chopped 1 small jalapeño seeded and finely diced 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro 1 tablespoon honey ¼ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Boiling & Topping: 2 quarts water 2 tablespoons baking soda 1 egg beaten (for egg wash) 2 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning (optional)
Instructions
- Activate Yeast:
- In a small bowl combine warm water sugar and yeast. Let sit until foamy about 5 minutes.
- Mix Dough:
- In a large bowl mix flour and salt. Add yeast mixture and olive oil stirring to form a shaggy dough.
- Knead & Rise:
- Knead on a lightly floured surface for 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place dough in an oiled bowl cover and let rise in a warm place for 60 minutes or until doubled in size.
- Prepare Filling:
- While dough rises mix cream cheese cranberries jalapeño cilantro honey salt and pepper in a bowl until well combined. Chill until needed.
- Preheat Oven & Prep Sheet:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Boil Water:
- Bring 2 quarts of water to a boil in a large pot. Add baking soda carefully.
- Divide Dough:
- Punch down risen dough and divide into 16 equal pieces. Flatten each into a 3 inch disk.
- Fill & Shape Bombs:
- Place about 1 heaping teaspoon of filling in center of each disk. Pinch and seal dough around filling rolling gently into a ball.
- Boil Bombs:
- Working in batches drop bombs into simmering baking soda water for 30 seconds turning once. Remove with slotted spoon and place on baking sheet.
- Egg Wash & Topping:
- Brush each bomb with beaten egg and sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning if using.
- Bake:
- Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.
Pin There&s something special about making these bagel bombs together especially when everyone helps seal the dough around the filling. It&s become one of our most requested treats for holiday mornings or cozy evenings in.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls measuring cups and spoons stand mixer or hands for kneading baking sheet parchment paper slotted spoon saucepan or large pot pastry brush
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten) egg milk (dairy). If using bagel seasoning check for sesame seeds or other allergens to be safe.
Nutritional Information
Calories 115 fat 3.5 g carbohydrates 18 g protein 3 g per bagel bomb serving
Pin These festive bagel bombs make any party feel extra special. Serve fresh and warm and they vanish fast.
Recipe Q&A
- → How spicy are the bagel bombs?
The spice is mild, with jalapeño flavor and just a slight kick. For more heat, include some jalapeño seeds.
- → Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Yes, finely chop fresh cranberries and reduce the honey slightly to balance tartness in the filling.
- → Can these be made ahead of time?
Prepare and bake ahead; reheat until warm for best flavor and texture before serving.
- → What is the best way to seal the bombs?
Pinch dough edges tightly around filling, then roll gently into a ball to ensure no filling leaks during baking.
- → Are these vegetarian friendly?
Yes, all ingredients are vegetarian, but check the bagel seasoning for potential added allergens like sesame.
- → What can I serve with bagel bombs?
They pair well with sparkling wine, light lager, or simple sides like crisp vegetables or dips.