In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheddar, diced cooked bacon, mayonnaise, sour cream, hot sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy, but avoid over-mixing. Set aside for flavors to meld.

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice a thin layer from the bottom of each bagel for stability and hollow out the center, leaving enough bagel on the sides.

Generously fill each hollowed bagel with the creamy bacon mixture, reserving some bacon bits for garnishing.

Arrange the stuffed bagels on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.

Once baked, sprinkle reserved bacon bits on top and optionally garnish with chopped chives. Serve warm.