Bagel with Cream Cheese Recipe: A Classic Delight
Bagels with cream cheese are a breakfast staple that combines simplicity and indulgence. This recipe is perfect for those mornings when you crave a comforting, satisfying meal that requires minimal effort. With its crispy exterior, soft interior, and the creamy richness of the cream cheese spread, this dish strikes the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Whether you’re preparing bagels at home or opting for store-bought ones, this guide will walk you through everything you need to create a delectable Bagel with Cream Cheese Recipe. From nutrition details to preparation time, this article covers it all.
Introduction
Bagels with cream cheese have been a beloved breakfast choice for decades, originating from Jewish-American cuisine. This dish has become a global sensation, often enjoyed with various toppings such as smoked salmon, cucumbers, or capers. While it’s simple at its core, the options for customization make it versatile and universally appealing.
In this recipe, we’ll focus on the classic version—a toasted bagel slathered with a generous layer of cream cheese. The crispy, golden bagel perfectly complements the tangy and velvety cream cheese, making it a perfect start to the day or a quick midday snack.
Cuisines
- American
- Jewish-American
Course
- Breakfast
- Snack
Servings
- Serves: 1 person
(Easily scalable for more servings.)
Calories
- Approximately 300–400 calories per serving (depending on the bagel size and type of cream cheese used).
Prep Time
- 5 minutes
Active Time
- 5 minutes
Resting Time
- None
Total Time
- 10 minutes
Equipment
- Toaster or oven
- Spreading knife
- Cutting board (optional, for toppings)
Ingredients
- 1 bagel (plain, whole wheat, or your favorite type)
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese (plain or flavored)
- Optional toppings:
- Smoked salmon
- Sliced cucumbers
- Capers
- Sliced tomatoes
- Red onion slices
- Chives or dill
Nutrition (Per Serving)
Calories: 300–400
Protein: 8–10g
Carbohydrates: 45–50g
Fat: 10–15g
Fiber: 2–4g
Sodium: 450–550mg
(Nutritional values vary based on the bagel type and cream cheese brand used.)
Instructions
Step 1: Choose Your Bagel
Select your preferred type of bagel. Popular options include plain, sesame, everything, whole wheat, or gluten-free bagels. Fresh bagels are ideal, but store-bought options work perfectly.
Step 2: Slice the Bagel
Using a serrated knife, carefully slice the bagel in half. Ensure you have two evenly cut halves.
Step 3: Toast the Bagel
Place the bagel halves in a toaster or under a broiler in your oven. Toast until golden brown and crispy. This step enhances the texture and flavor of the bagel, providing a delightful crunch.
Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese
While the bagel is toasting, allow the cream cheese to soften slightly if it’s straight out of the fridge. This makes spreading easier and ensures an even layer.
Step 5: Spread the Cream Cheese
Once the bagel is toasted, use a spreading knife to apply an even layer of cream cheese to each half. Adjust the amount of cream cheese based on your preference. For a richer taste, add an extra tablespoon!
Step 6: Add Optional Toppings
If you’d like to elevate your Bagel with Cream Cheese Recipe, consider adding toppings. For a classic New York-style bagel, top with smoked salmon, thinly sliced cucumbers, red onion, and capers. Alternatively, sprinkle fresh herbs like chives or dill for added freshness.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Place the prepared bagel on a plate and serve immediately. Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate breakfast experience.
Tips for the Perfect Bagel with Cream Cheese
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh bagels and premium cream cheese for the best results.
- Warm Cream Cheese for Easy Spreading: Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before spreading.
- Experiment with Flavors: Try flavored cream cheese, such as chive, garlic herb, or strawberry, to add variety.
- Toast to Your Liking: Customize the toasting time based on your preferred level of crispiness.
- Storage Tips: Store leftover bagels in an airtight container or freeze them to maintain freshness. Reheat frozen bagels in the oven or toaster before serving.
Why This Recipe Works
This Bagel with Cream Cheese Recipe is quick, easy, and endlessly customizable. It requires minimal effort and delivers maximum flavor, making it a favorite for busy mornings or when you’re craving something comforting. The combination of the toasted bagel’s crispness and the creaminess of the cheese is timeless and universally satisfying.
Whether you’re a fan of classic bagels or enjoy experimenting with toppings, this recipe is your ultimate guide to creating the perfect breakfast or snack. So, grab your favorite bagel, whip out some cream cheese, and treat yourself to a delicious homemade creation!
I am Ashley Doyle, Senior Specialist in Food & Policy at The Humane Society of the United States and editor at airfryermama.com. I am passionate about transforming our global food system by promoting delicious, climate-friendly, plant-based foods. After transitioning from law to food and public policy, I now work with major food service companies to develop plant-based initiatives and animal welfare policies. My goal is to drive institutional change to combat climate change and improve our food system.