Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is all about ease, flavor, and customization. It’s quick to prepare, endlessly adaptable, and works for any time of day. Whether you enjoy it plain, toasted, or loaded with toppings, bagels with cream cheese offer the perfect balance of comfort and convenience.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Bagels (plain, whole wheat, everything, sesame, or your choice)
- Cream cheese (plain or flavored)
- Optional toppings: smoked salmon, sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, capers, herbs, or everything bagel seasoning
Directions
- Slice the bagel in half horizontally.
- Toast the bagel halves in a toaster or oven until golden and warm, if desired.
- Spread a generous layer of cream cheese on each half.
- Add any desired toppings, such as vegetables, seasoning, or smoked salmon.
- Serve immediately and enjoy.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 1 serving (1 bagel).
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 2–3 minutes (if toasting)
Total Time: 5–8 minutes
Variations
- Sweet Option: Use cinnamon raisin bagels with plain or honey cream cheese. Add sliced strawberries or a drizzle of honey.
- Savory Deluxe: Top with smoked salmon, red onion, capers, and fresh dill.
- Veggie-Loaded: Add sliced cucumber, tomato, sprouts, and a sprinkle of sea salt.
- Spicy Twist: Use jalapeño cream cheese and add sliced peppers or hot sauce.
- Mini Bagels: Great for parties or snacks—serve with various spreads and toppings.
Storage/Reheating
Bagels are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in a sealed bag at room temperature for 1–2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Toast before serving for best texture. Cream cheese should be refrigerated and spread just before eating. Fully assembled bagels are not ideal for storage and can become soggy.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, low-fat or whipped cream cheese are both great alternatives for a lighter option.
What kind of bagels work best?
Any type—plain, everything, whole wheat, sesame, or specialty flavors based on your taste.
Do bagels have to be toasted?
Toasting is optional, but it enhances texture and flavor.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use a plant-based cream cheese made from nuts, tofu, or coconut.
What are some kid-friendly versions?
Use mini bagels and top with cream cheese and fruit slices or a little jam.
Can I make this into a sandwich?
Absolutely—add protein like turkey or egg along with cream cheese and veggies.
How do I store leftover bagels?
Keep them in a sealed container at room temperature for short-term use, or freeze them for longer storage.
Can I freeze bagels?
Yes, slice them first, wrap well, and freeze. Toast straight from frozen when ready to eat.
What’s a good topping for sweet bagels?
Try fruit, honey, jam, or a cinnamon-sugar sprinkle for a sweet touch.
Is this recipe good for breakfast?
Yes, it’s a classic breakfast option that’s filling and versatile.
Conclusion
Bagels with Cream Cheese is a quick and tasty go-to recipe that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you keep it simple or dress it up with your favorite toppings, this comforting combo is perfect for any time of day.
PrintBagels with Cream Cheese
Bagels with Cream Cheese is a classic, comforting dish featuring a chewy toasted bagel topped with smooth cream cheese. Quick to make and easy to customize, it’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a satisfying snack.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Total Time: 8 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Toasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 bagel (plain, whole wheat, everything, sesame, or your choice)
- 2–3 tbsp cream cheese (plain or flavored)
- Optional toppings: smoked salmon, sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, capers, herbs, everything bagel seasoning
Instructions
- Slice the bagel in half horizontally.
- Toast the bagel halves in a toaster or oven until golden and warm, if desired.
- Spread a generous layer of cream cheese on each half.
- Add any desired toppings such as vegetables, seasoning, or smoked salmon.
- Serve immediately and enjoy.
Notes
- Use whipped or low-fat cream cheese for a lighter version.
- Try sweet variations with fruit, honey, or cinnamon sugar.
- Mini bagels make great kid-friendly or party-sized options.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bagel with cream cheese
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
