Imagine walking into your kitchen and being enveloped by the comforting aroma of baked cheese mingling with a hint of mustard and fresh herbs. That’s the moment I experienced when I first made this Cheesy Baked Bagel Pudding, and I knew I had discovered something special. Perfect for transforming leftover bagels into a delightful dish, this recipe is incredibly easy, making it ideal for both busy weeknights and casual gatherings.
After a hectic day, the prospect of fast food might seem tempting, but why settle when you can whip up this warm, cheesy masterpiece in just over an hour? It’s an elegant blend of textures and flavors, with the crispy tops giving way to a creamy, savory base—a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels like a hug in a bowl. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into creating a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
What makes Cheesy baked bagel pudding special?
Comforting and indulgent, every bite of this dish wraps you in warmth. Versatile enough to enjoy as brunch, lunch, or dinner, it easily adapts to any occasion. Quick to prepare with just 15 minutes of hands-on time, it’s a lifesaver for busy individuals. Flavorsome mustard and fresh herbs elevate traditional bagels into a gourmet delight. Crowd-pleasing and unique, it’s bound to impress your family and friends—all while transforming those stale bagels in your pantry into an unforgettable meal!
Cheesy Baked Bagel Pudding Ingredients
Transform your leftovers into a delightful dish!
For the Base
- 6 plain bagels, halved – use stale bagels for the best texture and flavor absorption.
- 80g butter, softened – this adds richness and helps create a crispy top.
- 6 medium free-range eggs – they bind the pudding and provide a fluffy texture.
- 650ml whole milk – for a creamy consistency that complements the flavors.
For the Flavoring
- 7 tbsp mustard – choose your favorite variety to add a tangy kick to the dish.
- 20g finely chopped fresh herbs – fresh herbs like parsley or chives bring brightness to the rich flavors.
For the Cheesy Layer
- 200g emmental cheese, grated – this melty cheese adds depth and creaminess to every bite.
For the Accompaniment
- 150g dill pickles, halved – these tangy pickles offer a delightful contrast to the richness of the pudding.
How to Make Cheesy Baked Bagel Pudding
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Prep the Bagels: Spread most of the softened butter on the cut sides of the halved bagels, ensuring each piece is generously coated for a delightful golden finish.
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Mix the Base: In a jug, whisk together the eggs and whole milk, then season the mixture with a good sprinkle of salt and pepper for added flavor.
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Flavor the Mustard: In a bowl, combine the various mustards, then mix in the fresh herbs along with 75ml of your milk and egg mixture, ensuring an equal blend of flavors.
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Layer the Dish: Begin layering half of the buttered bagels, cut-side up, in an ovenproof dish. Pour half of the egg and milk mixture over the top, then sprinkle with three-quarters of the grated emmental cheese for a cheesy explosion.
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Complete the Layers: Add the remaining bagel halves, cut-side down, then pour on the rest of the egg and milk mixture. Gently press down with your hands, allowing the bagel halves to soak up that delicious liquid.
Optional: Garnish with extra fresh herbs before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Cheesy Baked Bagel Pudding
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Choose Stale Bagels: Use stale bagels for better absorption of the egg and milk mixture, resulting in a creamier texture.
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Butter Generously: Make sure to spread enough butter on the bagels; this creates a beautifully crispy top that contrasts with the creamy filling.
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Season Well: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper in your egg mixture. Proper seasoning enhances the flavors of your Cheesy Baked Bagel Pudding wonderfully.
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Let it Soak: Allow the assembled dish to soak for at least an hour before baking. This step ensures the bagels fully absorb the liquid for optimal flavor and moistness.
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Experiment with Cheese: While emmental is fantastic, feel free to mix in other cheeses for a unique flavor profile. Just ensure they’re good melting cheeses!
What to Serve with Cheesy Baked Bagel Pudding?
Transform your Cheesy Baked Bagel Pudding into a full feast with these delightful accompaniments.
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Crispy Green Salad: A refreshing mix of crisp greens adds a bright, crunchy contrast and balances the rich flavors of the pudding. Toss it with a tangy vinaigrette for an invigorating touch.
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Roasted Vegetables: Sweet, caramelized veggies like carrots and bell peppers provide a hearty sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory elements of the dish. Their textures and flavors create a comforting balance.
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Tangy Coleslaw: A creamy, tangy coleslaw contrasts with the richness of the bagel pudding, adding both crunch and zest to each bite. It’s a classic side that complements the dish perfectly.
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Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread lets you savor every drop of the cheesy goodness, adding a delightful crunch. The aromatic garlic enhances the overall comforting experience.
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Pickled Vegetables: The zing from pickled veggies perks up the palate, making each bite of the pudding even more delicious. Their acidity provides a delightful balance to the creamy dish.
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Buttery Corn on the Cob: Sweet, tender corn on the cob, brushed with a bit of butter, adds a playful sweetness that works wonderfully with the dish. It’s a nostalgic favorite that rounds out the meal beautifully.
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Sparkling White Wine: A glass of chilled sparkling white wine elevates your dining experience, refreshing the palate between bites of cheesy pudding and enhancing the flavors.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light and airy chocolate mousse provides the perfect sweet finish after the savory pudding. Its richness contrasts nicely, leaving everyone satisfied.
Make Ahead Options
These Cheesy Baked Bagel Pudding delights are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance, simply following the recipe instructions until the layering step. Once you’ve assembled the bagel pudding, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain its freshness and prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes while preheating your oven. Then, pop it in the oven as directed, and enjoy a comforting meal that’s just as delicious and cheesy as if it were freshly made! This makes your busy weeknights feel so much more manageable.
Cheesy baked bagel pudding Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to make this dish your own with these delightful twists!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute standard bagels with gluten-free bagels. They’ll soak up the egg mixture just as beautifully!
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Herb Infusion: Swap fresh herbs for a teaspoon of dried herbs like oregano or thyme for a different flavor profile. It’s an easy way to enhance complexity!
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Vegetarian Delight: For a vegetarian option, skip the pickles or replace them with roasted vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for additional flavor and color.
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Cheese Lovers: Experiment with mixing several types of cheese, such as sharp cheddar or creamy goat cheese, for an exciting cheese medley. Each bite will burst with different flavors!
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Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or some sliced jalapeños to the egg mixture for warmth and excitement. This will elevate your comforting dish to new heights!
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Savory Twist: Incorporate crumbled cooked bacon or sausage for a protein-packed variation. This will bring an added richness that’s hard to resist.
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Sweet Surprise: For a sweeter version, drizzle some maple syrup on top as it bakes. The contrast between sweet and savory will tantalize your taste buds!
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Nutty Texture: Add a handful of toasted nuts, like walnuts or pecans, to introduce a crunchy texture into this soft dish. They’ll provide a delightful contrast and some nutty flavor.
How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Baked Bagel Pudding
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: For best results, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 20 minutes until hot and cheese is bubbly.
Room Temperature: Unbaked Cheesy Baked Bagel Pudding can sit at room temperature for up to 1 hour but should be baked and eaten for the best flavor.
Cheesy Baked Bagel Pudding Recipe FAQs
What kind of bagels are best for Cheesy Baked Bagel Pudding?
Absolutely, stale bagels work best for this recipe! They’re drier and can easily absorb the egg and milk mixture without becoming mushy. Fresh bagels may not soak up the liquid effectively, leading to a less creamy texture.
How long can I store leftovers, and what’s the best method?
I recommend storing any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, simply pop individual portions into the microwave or oven until they are heated through, with the cheese melted and bubbly.
Can I freeze Cheesy Baked Bagel Pudding?
Definitely! To freeze, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 20 minutes until hot. This will help bring back that lovely cheese melt!
What if my bagel pudding doesn’t set properly?
Very commonly, this happens if the bagels were too fresh or the soaking time was insufficient. To ensure great results, always opt for stale bagels and let the assembled pudding soak for at least an hour before baking. This allows them to absorb the egg and milk mixture thoroughly.
Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Indeed! If you or someone you’re serving has dietary restrictions, you can substitute the eggs with aquafaba (chickpea brine) for a vegan option. For those concerned about gluten, gluten-free bagels can work well, too. Just be sure to check the labels for any other allergens related to your specific ingredients, like cheese or mustard varieties.
How can I enhance the flavor further?
For an even more robust flavor, consider adding sautéed onions or garlic to the mixture! I often mix in a hint of smoked paprika too, which adds a depth that elevates the overall dish. Experimenting with different cheeses, such as cheddar or gouda, can truly transform the taste of your Cheesy Baked Bagel Pudding!
Savory Cheesy Baked Bagel Pudding: A Comfort Food Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Spread most of the softened butter on the cut sides of the halved bagels, ensuring each piece is generously coated for a delightful golden finish.
- In a jug, whisk together the eggs and whole milk, then season the mixture with a good sprinkle of salt and pepper for added flavor.
- In a bowl, combine the various mustards, then mix in the fresh herbs along with 75ml of your milk and egg mixture, ensuring an equal blend of flavors.
- Begin layering half of the buttered bagels, cut-side up, in an ovenproof dish. Pour half of the egg and milk mixture over the top, then sprinkle with three-quarters of the grated emmental cheese for a cheesy explosion.
- Add the remaining bagel halves, cut-side down, then pour on the rest of the egg and milk mixture. Gently press down with your hands, allowing the bagel halves to soak up that delicious liquid.
- Optional: Garnish with extra fresh herbs before serving for a pop of color and freshness.