Bagel with Cream Cheese (Printable Version)

Golden toasted bagel layered with creamy spread and optional savory toppings for a quick, satisfying morning bite.

# Ingredient List:

→ Base

01 - 1 bagel (plain, sesame, whole wheat, or other variety)

→ Spread

02 - 2–3 tbsp cream cheese (plain or flavored such as chive, veggie, or smoked salmon)

→ Optional Toppings

03 - Sliced cucumber
04 - Sliced tomato
05 - Smoked salmon
06 - Fresh dill
07 - Capers
08 - Red onion slices

# How to Make It:

01 - Cut the bagel in half horizontally using a serrated knife to create two even halves.
02 - Place both bagel halves in a toaster or under a broiler for 2–3 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
03 - Spread a generous layer of cream cheese on each warm bagel half while still hot.
04 - Layer any desired toppings such as sliced cucumber, tomato, smoked salmon, fresh dill, capers, or red onion on top of the cream cheese.
05 - Serve the bagel while still warm for the best texture and flavor experience.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Takes under 10 minutes from start to finish, perfect for busy mornings
  • Infinitely customizable based on whats in your fridge or your mood
  • The warm bagel and cool cream cheese contrast is pure comfort
02 -
  • A cold bagel straight from the fridge will toast unevenly. Let it sit out for 10 minutes first.
  • Slicing a warm, fresh bagel is nearly impossible without squishing it. If you must, use a very gentle sawing motion.
  • Room temperature cream cheese prevents tearing the bagel surface and spreads more evenly.
03 -
  • Flip the bagel halfway through toasting for even browning
  • Add everything bagel seasoning to plain cream cheese for instant flavor upgrade
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