Bagel with Cream Cheese (Print Version)

Toasted bagel spread with creamy cream cheese and optional fresh toppings for a satisfying breakfast start.

# What You Need:

→ Bagel

01 - 1 bagel, any variety (plain, sesame, whole wheat, etc.)

→ Cream Cheese

02 - 2 to 3 tablespoons cream cheese (plain or flavored, such as chive, vegetable, or smoked salmon)

→ Optional Toppings

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

# Directions:

01 - Cut the bagel horizontally into two equal halves using a serrated knife.
02 - Toast both halves in a toaster or under a broiler until golden brown and crisp, approximately 2 to 3 minutes.
03 - Spread a generous, even layer of cream cheese on each warm bagel half.
04 - Top with any desired optional ingredients such as sliced cucumber, tomato, smoked salmon, fresh dill, capers, or red onion slices.
05 - Serve immediately while the bagel remains warm.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Ready in 8 minutes flat, which means actual warm toast in your mouth before you've finished your first sip of coffee.
  • The contrast between the crispy toasted edges and the creamy center is genuinely addictive.
  • You can dress it up or keep it bare, and it works equally well either way.
02 -
  • Cold cream cheese will resist spreading and can tear the warm bagel, so if it's been in the fridge, let it sit out for a few minutes first or spread it gently with a warm knife.
  • The toasting step is non-negotiable—it transforms a soft bagel into something with structure and crunch, which is what makes the cream cheese contrast actually sing.
03 -
  • Let cream cheese soften for 5–10 minutes at room temperature before spreading, and you'll avoid tearing the warm bagel or creating frustrating lumpy applications.
  • Toast your bagel cut-side up under the broiler instead of in a toaster if you want more control over the browning and a chance to get the edges extra crispy.
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