Save Soft golden bagel dough filled with tangy creamy cranberry jalapeño dip create bite-sized bombs that offer the perfect blend of sweet spicy and savory. These treats are ideal for holiday gatherings or as a unique appetizer everyone will talk about.
I first made these bagel bombs for a friendsgiving where everyone appreciated their fun twist on the classic appetizer. They disappeared fast and several people asked for the recipe afterward.
Ingredients
- Dough: 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) 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 (115 g) 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
- Make dough:
- In a small bowl combine warm water sugar and yeast. Let sit until foamy about 5 minutes. In a large bowl mix flour and salt. Add yeast mixture and olive oil stirring to form a shaggy dough.
- Knead and 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 until well combined. Chill until needed.
- Preheat oven:
- 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.
- Shape bombs:
- Punch down dough and divide into 16 equal pieces. Flatten each into a 3 inch disk. Place 1 heaping teaspoon of filling in center pinch and seal the dough around the filling rolling gently into a ball.
- Simmer:
- In batches carefully drop bombs into simmering baking soda water for 30 seconds turning once. Remove with slotted spoon and place on baking sheet.
- Egg wash and topping:
- Brush each bomb with beaten egg and sprinkle everything bagel seasoning if using.
- Bake:
- Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.
Save 
Save My kids help seal these little bombs making assembly a fun holiday tradition. The excitement when they break one open at the table makes this recipe extra special for us.
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 store bought bagel seasoning check for sesame seeds or other allergens.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories 115 total fat 3.5 g carbohydrates 18 g protein 3 g
Save 
Save These bagel bombs turn any festivity into something memorable. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven for maximum flavor and smiles.
Kitchen Guide
- → What makes the filling tangy and spicy?
Combining cream cheese, dried cranberries, jalapeño, honey, and fresh cilantro brings both tanginess and spice to the filling.
- → Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Yes, finely chop fresh cranberries and slightly reduce the honey to balance tartness in the filling.
- → What does the baking soda water bath do?
This step gives the bagel bombs a chewy texture and helps achieve their golden, glossy exterior after baking.
- → Is there a vegetarian option for these bagel bombs?
They are vegetarian as written, using dairy and egg. Ensure your bagel seasoning does not contain meat or fish ingredients.
- → How can I adjust the spice level?
Use more or fewer jalapeño seeds to increase or decrease heat, and taste the filling before assembly.
- → What’s the best way to serve bagel bombs?
Serve warm for optimal texture and flavor, alongside sparkling wine or a light lager for festive occasions.