Bagel with Cream Cheese
A classic, comforting breakfast staple featuring a chewy, golden-brown bagel slathered with rich, velvety cream cheese.
Ingredients
- •4 fresh bagels (plain, sesame, or everything)
- •8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- •1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped (optional)
- •1 pinch of sea salt or cracked black pepper (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven or toaster oven to 350°F (175°C).
- 2
Slice each bagel horizontally into two even halves using a serrated bread knife.
- 3
Place the bagel halves cut-side up on a baking sheet or directly on the toaster rack.
- 4
Toast the bagels for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is warm and slightly crisp.
- 5
While the bagels are warm, spread a generous, even layer of softened cream cheese over the cut side of each half.
- 6
If using, sprinkle the chopped chives, a pinch of sea salt, or cracked black pepper over the cream cheese for added flavor.
- 7
Serve immediately while the bagel is still warm and the cream cheese is slightly softened from the heat.
💡 Chef tips
- For the best texture, use a serrated knife to slice bagels to avoid crushing the soft interior.
- If you want a savory twist, mix smoked salmon or capers into the cream cheese before spreading.
- Store leftover bagels in an airtight bag at room temperature for up to two days, or freeze them for up to a month.
✅ How it should turn out
The finished bagel should be perfectly toasted with a crisp exterior and a soft, chewy interior, topped with cool, creamy, and tangy cream cheese that melts slightly into the warm bread.