Is there anything better than a freshly baked bagel with a generous spread of rich, creamy cheese? Whether you’re grabbing one from a classic New York deli or making it from scratch at home, bagels with cream cheese are the ultimate breakfast staple in the USA. But what if you could create that perfectly chewy, golden bagel right in your own kitchen—better than store-bought?
This homemade bagel recipe is not only easy to follow, but it also delivers that authentic New York-style texture, a crisp crust with a soft, slightly dense interior. Plus, I’ll show you how to whip up a deliciously smooth cream cheese spread with flavor variations that will take your breakfast game to the next level.
Table of Contents
🔹 What You’ll Love About This Recipe
✔️ Classic & Foolproof: No fancy ingredients, just simple steps for bakery-style bagels.
✔️ Tastes Better Than Store-Bought: Fresh, chewy, and perfectly golden.
✔️ Endless Customization: From sweet to savory cream cheese, you’ll get the best topping ideas.
✔️ Meal Prep-Friendly: Make them ahead and enjoy a delicious breakfast all week.
Whether you prefer a plain bagel with classic cream cheese or love flavorful twists like garlic-herb or honey-walnut spreads, this recipe will have you baking like a pro. Ready to create the best bagels with cream cheese you’ve ever tasted? Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Not all bagels are created equal, and if you’ve ever wondered why homemade bagels with cream cheese taste so much better than store-bought, you’re in for a treat! This recipe delivers the perfect combination of chewiness, crispness, and rich, creamy flavor—all in just a few simple steps. Here’s why you’ll love making these bagels at home:
✔️ Quick & Easy to Make
Think making bagels is complicated? Think again! With this step-by-step guide, you’ll be surprised at how simple it is to create soft, golden bagels from scratch. No professional baking skills required!
✔️ Tastes Better Than Store-Bought
Forget bagels that are too dense, dry, or lacking flavor. This recipe guarantees a crispy exterior with a perfectly chewy bite—just like the ones from your favorite New York bagel shop.
✔️ Customizable with Your Favorite Flavors
Love garlic and herb cream cheese? Prefer a touch of sweetness with honey-walnut spread? This recipe includes flavor variations to match any craving.
✔️ Meal-Prep Friendly
These bagels stay fresh for days and can be frozen for quick breakfasts on busy mornings. Just toast, spread with cream cheese, and enjoy!
✔️ A True Crowd-Pleaser
Whether it’s for brunch, meal prep, or a special breakfast treat, homemade bagels with cream cheese always impress. Serve them with smoked salmon, avocado, or a drizzle of honey for a gourmet touch.
🔹 Ingredients You’ll Need
Making homemade bagels with cream cheese requires just a few simple ingredients, but the right combination is key to achieving that perfect chewy texture and rich flavor. Below is everything you’ll need to make both the bagels and the creamy, flavorful spread.
🥯 For the Bagels:
✔️ Bread Flour (3 ½ cups) – Provides the perfect chewiness. Use high-protein flour for the best texture.
✔️ Instant Yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons) – Helps the dough rise properly and develop flavor.
✔️ Warm Water (1 ¼ cups) – Activates the yeast and hydrates the dough.
✔️ Granulated Sugar (1 tablespoon) – Feeds the yeast and adds a subtle sweetness.
✔️ Salt (1 ½ teaspoons) – Enhances flavor and controls yeast activity.
✔️ Baking Soda (1 tablespoon, for boiling water) – Gives bagels their signature golden-brown crust.
🧀 For the Cream Cheese Spread:
✔️ Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened) – The star ingredient! Use full-fat for the best flavor.
✔️ Milk or Heavy Cream (1-2 tablespoons) – Makes the cream cheese spread extra smooth.
✔️ Pinch of Salt – Enhances the overall taste.
🔹 Optional Flavor Add-Ins:
Looking to elevate your cream cheese game? Try these delicious mix-ins:
- Savory: Garlic & herbs, smoked salmon, chives, black pepper.
- Sweet: Honey & walnuts, cinnamon & sugar, strawberry puree.
🔹 Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make the Best Bagels with Cream Cheese
Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to make bakery-style bagels with a rich, creamy spread right at home! Follow these simple step-by-step instructions to get that perfect chewy texture and golden crust—just like a classic New York-style bagel.
🥯 Step 1: Make the Bagel Dough
✔️ Activate the Yeast – In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water (about 110°F), sugar, and yeast. Allow the mixture to rest for about five minutes until small bubbles begin to form and it turns frothy. (If it doesn’t foam, your yeast might be expired!)
✔️ Mix the Dough – Add bread flour and salt, then stir until a dough forms. Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. (Pro tip: If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour; if too dry, add a teaspoon of water.)
✔️ First Rise – Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise for 60-90 minutes until doubled in size.
🥯 Step 2: Shape the Bagels
✔️ Divide & Roll – Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball.
✔️ Create the Hole – Use your thumb to poke a hole in the center, then gently stretch until you get a bagel shape. (For an authentic look, make the hole about 1.5 inches wide—it will shrink during baking!)
✔️ Second Rise – Place the shaped bagels on a baking sheet, cover loosely, and let them rest for 15 minutes.
🥯 Step 3: Boil the Bagels (Secret to a Perfect Crust!)
✔️ Boiling Water Prep – Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 1 tablespoon of baking soda (this gives the bagels a golden, chewy crust).
✔️ Boil for 30-60 Seconds Per Side – Drop bagels into boiling water (don’t overcrowd the pot!). Boil for 30 seconds per side for a softer crust, or 60 seconds for extra chewiness.
✔️ Drain & Transfer – Remove bagels with a slotted spoon and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
🥯 Step 4: Bake the Bagels to Perfection
✔️ Preheat the Oven – Set to 425°F (220°C).
✔️ Optional Toppings – Before baking, brush bagels with an egg wash and sprinkle with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning.
✔️ Bake for 20-25 Minutes – Until golden brown and crisp. Let cool before slicing.
🧀 Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Spread
✔️ Soften the Cream Cheese – Let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes or microwave for 10-15 seconds to make mixing easier.
✔️ Whip Until Smooth – In a bowl, mix cream cheese with 1-2 tablespoons of milk or heavy cream for a spreadable texture.
✔️ Add Flavor (Optional) – Stir in chopped chives, honey, cinnamon, or smoked salmon for a gourmet twist!
🥯 Step 6: Assemble & Enjoy!
✔️ Slice & Toast – For extra crunch, toast your homemade bagel before spreading the cream cheese.
✔️ Spread Generously – Slather on your favorite cream cheese variation and enjoy!
✔️ Pair With… – Fresh fruit, smoked salmon, or even a drizzle of honey for the ultimate bagel experience.
🔹 The Best Toppings & Variations for Bagels with Cream Cheese
One of the best things about bagels with cream cheese is their endless topping possibilities! Whether you love classic flavors or want to experiment with unique combinations, there’s a perfect match for every craving. Here are some of the best bagel topping ideas to elevate your breakfast game.
🥯 Classic & Simple Toppings (Perfect for Purists!)
✔️ Plain Cream Cheese – The traditional go-to for a reason!
✔️ Butter & Honey – A rich, slightly sweet alternative.
✔️ Jam or Fruit Preserves – Strawberry, raspberry, or apricot for a sweet touch.
✔️ Peanut Butter or Almond Butter – A nutty twist for protein-packed energy.
🧄 Savory & Gourmet Toppings (For the Ultimate Bagel Experience!)
✔️ Garlic & Herb Cream Cheese – Add fresh chives, dill, and minced garlic for a flavorful boost.
✔️ Smoked Salmon & Capers – A classic New York-style bagel with lox, red onion, and capers.
✔️ Avocado & Everything Bagel Seasoning – Creamy, crunchy, and nutritious!
✔️ Egg & Cheese – Turn your bagel into a breakfast sandwich with scrambled eggs and cheddar.
✔️ Hummus & Cucumber – A healthy, dairy-free option with fresh, crisp texture.
🍯 Sweet & Dessert-Inspired Toppings (For Those With a Sweet Tooth!)
✔️ Honey Walnut Cream Cheese – Mix cream cheese with chopped walnuts & honey for a nutty, sweet spread.
✔️ Cinnamon & Sugar Cream Cheese – A warm, spiced flavor perfect for fall mornings.
✔️ Strawberry & Chocolate Spread – A decadent, dessert-like bagel treat.
✔️ Cream Cheese & Fresh Berries – Top with blueberries, raspberries, or sliced strawberries for a fresh burst of flavor.
🔹 Pro Tips for the Best Bagel Experience
✅ Toasting Enhances Flavor – A toasted bagel adds crunch & warmth, making the cream cheese melt slightly.
✅ Use High-Quality Ingredients – Fresh bagels, full-fat cream cheese, and premium toppings make all the difference.
✅ Customize Your Cream Cheese – Don’t settle for plain! Add herbs, honey, fruit, or spices to create unique flavors.
🔹 Expert Tips for Perfect Bagels
To help you make the absolute best bagels with cream cheese, here are a few expert tips to ensure your bagels turn out chewy, golden, and delicious every time. Whether you’re a first-time baker or a seasoned pro, these insider tricks will help you achieve bakery-quality results at home.
🥯 1. Rest the Dough Overnight for Extra Flavor
While it’s tempting to rush the process, giving your dough an overnight rise in the fridge adds a deep, complex flavor to your bagels. The cool fermentation allows the yeast to work slower, producing more taste. Just shape the bagels, cover them tightly, and let them rise in the fridge overnight. In the morning, you’re just a boil and bake away from bagel perfection!
🥯 2. Use Bread Flour for the Best Texture
The key to a chewy, fluffy bagel lies in the flour. Bread flour, with its higher protein content, gives your bagels the perfect structure and chew. Avoid using all-purpose flour if you’re aiming for that authentic bagel texture—it won’t yield the same chewy results.
🥯 3. Don’t Skip the Boiling Step
Boiling bagels before baking is non-negotiable! This step is crucial for achieving that crispy, golden-brown crust while keeping the inside soft and chewy. Be sure to boil your bagels for 30-60 seconds per side to get the ideal texture. For extra flavor, add a bit of baking soda to the water—it helps with browning and adds to the bagel’s chewy texture.
🥯 4. Check for Doneness by Tapping the Bottom
Once your bagels are out of the oven, give them a quick tap on the bottom. If they sound hollow, they’re perfectly baked! If not, pop them back in the oven for a couple more minutes. This simple technique ensures that your bagels are cooked all the way through without being underdone.
🥯 5. Store Properly for Freshness
Homemade bagels can dry out quickly, so proper storage is key. To keep them fresh for days, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container or resealable bag. For longer storage, freeze bagels and toast them directly from the freezer when you’re ready to enjoy. They’ll taste just as fresh as when they were first baked!
🥯 6. Experiment with Flavor Variations
Once you’ve mastered the basic bagel and cream cheese combo, it’s time to get creative! Try adding your favorite toppings to the dough before baking, such as onion, garlic, or sesame seeds, or try experimenting with flavored cream cheese spreads. Get inspired and make each batch of bagels uniquely yours!
🔹 Conclusion: Enjoy the Best Bagels with Cream Cheese!
There’s nothing quite like biting into a fresh, homemade bagel with cream cheese—whether you prefer it classic or with a creative twist, this recipe is sure to become your go-to for breakfast, brunch, or even a late-night snack. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll be able to bake New York-style bagels right from your own kitchen.
From boiling to baking, these bagels are designed for the perfect texture: crisp on the outside, soft and chewy on the inside. And with endless topping options—like garlic and herb cream cheese, smoked salmon, or a sweet honey-walnut spread—you can create the bagel of your dreams, every time.
So, whether you’re making them for yourself or sharing them with family and friends, you can be confident that your homemade bagels will be the star of the breakfast table. Now grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let’s bake some bagels that will make every bite feel like a true treat!
The Best Bagels with Cream Cheese Recipe – Classic & Easy to Make!
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring Cups & Spoons
- Wooden Spoon or Dough Hook Mixer
- Clean Kitchen Towel or Plastic Wrap
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment paper
- Large pot
- Slotted Spoon
- Cooling rack
- Sharp Knife or Bread Knife
- Spatula or Butter Knife
Ingredients
- For the Bagels:
- 4 cups bread flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 ¼ teaspoons 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1 ¼ cups warm water 110°F
- For Boiling:
- 8 cups water
- 2 tablespoons honey or barley malt syrup
- For the Cream Cheese Spread:
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- Optional: 1 tablespoon honey 1 teaspoon fresh herbs, or 1 teaspoon cinnamon-sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy. Add flour and salt, then knead until smooth.
- First Rise: Cover and let the dough rise for 60–90 minutes until doubled in size.
- Shape the Bagels: Divide into 8 equal pieces, shape into balls, then poke a hole in the center to form bagels.
- Boil the Bagels: Bring water and honey to a boil. Boil each bagel for 45 seconds per side, then drain.
- Bake: Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese: While bagels cool, mix softened cream cheese with optional add-ins for extra flavor.
- Assemble & Serve: Slice bagels, spread with cream cheese, and enjoy!
Notes
✔ Boiling is Essential: Don’t skip this step! Boiling helps create the signature chewy crust.
✔ Flavor Variations: Add toppings like sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything seasoning before baking.
✔ Storage Tips: Store bagels in an airtight container for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
✔ Reheating: Toast bagels for the best texture before serving. These notes help your readers get the best results and optimize their bagel experience! 🥯🔥
🔹 FAQs
How do I make the perfect bagel with cream cheese?
To make the perfect bagel, start with fresh, homemade bagels. After boiling and baking, spread a generous amount of cream cheese. For an extra touch, try adding a topping like smoked salmon, onions, or fresh herbs to elevate the flavor.
Can I make bagels without boiling them?
Boiling is a key step in achieving the classic bagel texture. If you skip it, the bagel may turn out more like bread than the chewy, dense texture we love. If you want an alternative, try baking soda in the water to get a slightly different result.
How do I store bagels with cream cheese?
For short-term storage, keep your bagels in an airtight container at room temperature. However, for longer freshness, it’s best to freeze them without the cream cheese. When ready to eat, simply thaw and spread the cream cheese.
What cream cheese flavors are best for bagels?
Some great cream cheese flavors to pair with your bagels include:
Garlic & Herb – Perfect for savory lovers.
Honey Walnut – A sweet, nutty twist.
Everything Bagel Seasoning – For a flavorful, crunchy kick.
Cinnamon Sugar – Ideal for those with a sweet tooth.
How can I avoid my bagels getting too hard after baking?
To prevent bagels from becoming too hard, don’t overbake them. After baking, let them cool completely on a wire rack. If they do become hard, wrap them in a damp towel and microwave them for a few seconds to soften.
Can I freeze bagels with cream cheese already spread on them?
It’s best to freeze the bagels without the cream cheese to preserve the flavor and texture. Once thawed, spread fresh cream cheese before serving. This ensures the cream cheese stays smooth and creamy.
How can I customize my bagels with cream cheese?
Get creative with your toppings! You can add smoked salmon, avocado, cucumber slices, or tomatoes to your bagels with cream cheese for extra flavor and texture. For a sweet twist, try strawberries, honey, or chocolate chips.