Bagel with Cream Cheese (Printable)

Warm toasted bagel topped with creamy spread and optional fresh garnishes

# What You'll Need:

→ Bagel Base

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

→ Cream Cheese Spread

02 - 2-3 tbsp cream cheese (plain or flavored: chive, vegetable, smoked salmon)

→ Optional Toppings

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

# Directions:

01 - Cut the bagel horizontally through the center using a serrated knife to create two even halves.
02 - Place both bagel halves in the toaster or under a broiler for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
03 - Spread a generous layer of cream cheese onto each warm bagel half while still hot for easy spreading.
04 - Layer desired toppings such as cucumber, tomato, smoked salmon, fresh dill, capers, or red onion atop the cream cheese.
05 - Present the bagel open-faced or closed while still warm for optimal texture and flavor.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Its the kind of breakfast that requires zero brainpower but delivers maximum comfort, exactly what we need on hectic weekdays
  • The warm bagel against cool cream cheese creates this perfect temperature contrast that hits different every single time
02 -
  • I learned through multiple bagel disasters that you really need to let cream cheese sit out for ten minutes before attempting to spread it
  • The difference between a good and great bagel breakfast is serving it immediately, because nothing sadder than a cold toasted bagel
03 -
  • Press down gently on the bagel while toasting if you prefer a more uniform crunch
  • A sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning on plain cream cheese creates instant flavor without buying multiple tubs
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