Few things are as comforting and iconic as a Classic Bagel with Cream Cheese — a breakfast staple that’s beloved worldwide. Originating from Jewish bakeries in Eastern Europe and perfected in New York City, the bagel is a dense yet tender bread ring, boiled before baking to achieve its signature chewy crust. When paired with smooth, tangy cream cheese, it becomes the perfect balance of texture and flavor — simple, satisfying, and endlessly versatile.
There’s something magical about slicing into a freshly baked bagel, toasting it until golden, and spreading on a generous layer of cream cheese. Whether enjoyed plain, topped with smoked salmon, or sprinkled with everything seasoning, this classic combination never disappoints.
Why I Love This Recipe
I absolutely love this recipe because it captures the authentic bakery-style bagel experience right in your kitchen. Making bagels at home might sound intimidating, but it’s surprisingly fun and rewarding. The process — kneading, boiling, and baking — fills your home with the irresistible aroma of fresh bread.
The result? Golden-brown, perfectly chewy bagels that are miles better than store-bought ones. I love the way the crisp crust gives way to a soft, dense interior, and how the cream cheese melts slightly on the warm surface. It’s a comforting, nostalgic bite that feels like a weekend treat — even on a weekday morning.
Why It’s a Must-Try Dish
This dish is a must-try for any breakfast lover or home baker. Not only are homemade bagels fresher and more flavorful, but they also allow you to customize every aspect — from toppings (sesame, poppy seeds, or “everything”) to flavorings (cinnamon raisin, onion, or plain).
And when paired with rich, velvety cream cheese, you get a combination that’s timeless and universally loved. Whether you’re preparing breakfast for your family, hosting brunch, or just craving a cozy meal, homemade bagels with cream cheese are pure joy in every bite.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Resting/Proofing Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Boiling and Baking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings and Nutrition
- Servings: 8 bagels
- Calories: Approximately 320 kcal per bagel (with cream cheese)
Course and Cuisine
- Course: Breakfast / Brunch
- Cuisine: Jewish-American / New York-style
Ingredients
For the Bagels:
- 4 cups bread flour (plus extra for kneading)
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1½ teaspoons salt
- 1¼ cups warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
For Boiling:
- 8 cups water
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda (optional, for extra chewiness)
For Toppings (Optional):
- Sesame seeds
- Poppy seeds
- Everything bagel seasoning
For Serving:
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- Optional add-ons: smoked salmon, capers, sliced tomato, cucumber, red onion
Cooking Directions
1. Make the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add flour and salt. Mix until a rough dough forms.
- Knead on a lightly floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise for 1 hour until doubled in size.
2. Shape the Bagels
- Punch down the dough and divide into 8 equal pieces.
- Shape each piece into a smooth ball.
- Poke a hole in the center with your finger and stretch it gently to form a 1½-inch ring.
- Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover, and rest for 15–20 minutes.
3. Boil the Bagels
- Bring 8 cups of water to a boil in a large pot. Add honey or brown sugar.
- Gently drop 2–3 bagels into the water at a time. Boil for 1 minute per side.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and place back on the parchment-lined tray.
4. Add Toppings and Bake
- Sprinkle desired toppings (sesame, poppy, etc.) on the wet surface.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Cool on a wire rack for 15 minutes before slicing.
5. Serve
- Slice the bagel horizontally, toast lightly, and spread with softened cream cheese.
- Add optional toppings like smoked salmon, cucumber, or tomato.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Step 1: Activate yeast in warm water with sugar.
Step 2: Mix and knead the dough until smooth.
Step 3: Let the dough rise for about an hour.
Step 4: Shape into rings and let them rest.
Step 5: Boil each bagel briefly to create that chewy texture.
Step 6: Bake until beautifully golden brown.
Step 7: Cool slightly, slice, and spread with cream cheese.
How to Serve This Recipe
Serve bagels warm and freshly toasted for the best experience. Spread with plain or flavored cream cheese and enjoy alongside a cup of coffee or tea.
Serving Ideas:
- Classic: Plain bagel with plain cream cheese.
- Deluxe: Add smoked salmon, red onions, and capers.
- Sweet: Try strawberry cream cheese and fresh berries.
- Savory: Mix chive or garlic cream cheese with cucumber slices.
Recipe Tips
- Use bread flour: It gives bagels their signature chew.
- Boil before baking: This step creates the shiny crust.
- Don’t skip the rest time: It allows the gluten to relax and makes shaping easier.
- Cool before slicing: Cutting hot bagels can make them gummy.
- Experiment with toppings: From onion flakes to “everything” seasoning, make it your own!
Variations
- Everything Bagels:
Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic flakes, onion flakes, and salt. - Cinnamon Raisin Bagels:
Add 2 teaspoons cinnamon and ½ cup raisins to the dough for a sweet twist. - Whole Wheat Bagels:
Replace half the bread flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier version. - Jalapeño Cheddar Bagels:
Mix shredded cheddar and minced jalapeños into the dough for a spicy kick. - Flavored Cream Cheese Options:
- Chive and Onion
- Strawberry
- Honey Walnut
- Smoked Salmon Cream Cheese
Freezing and Storage
- Room Temperature: Store in a paper bag or airtight container for 2–3 days.
- Refrigeration: Store bagels and cream cheese separately for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Wrap bagels individually in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Toast directly from frozen or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
Special Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet with parchment paper
- Slotted spoon
- Wire rack
- Stand mixer with dough hook (optional but helpful)
Conclusion
Classic Bagels with Cream Cheese are a breakfast legend for good reason — simple, comforting, and endlessly satisfying. Whether you’re enjoying them plain or dressed up with gourmet toppings, every bite delivers warmth, texture, and flavor that never gets old.
Making bagels from scratch is an experience worth savoring. It’s a blend of craft and comfort — and when paired with smooth cream cheese, it’s pure perfection.
So take a little time this weekend to bake a batch of homemade bagels — your mornings will never be the same again.
Classic Bagels with Cream Cheese
Description
Few things are as comforting and iconic as a Classic Bagel with Cream Cheese — a breakfast staple that’s beloved worldwide.
Ingredients
For the Bagels:
For Boiling:
For Toppings (Optional):
For Serving:
Instructions
-
1. Make the Dough : In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add flour and salt. Mix until a rough dough forms. Knead on a lightly floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise for 1 hour until doubled in size.
-
2. Shape the Bagels : Punch down the dough and divide into 8 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a smooth ball. Poke a hole in the center with your finger and stretch it gently to form a 1½-inch ring. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover, and rest for 15–20 minutes.
-
3. Boil the Bagels : Bring 8 cups of water to a boil in a large pot. Add honey or brown sugar. Gently drop 2–3 bagels into the water at a time. Boil for 1 minute per side.Remove with a slotted spoon and place back on the parchment-lined tray.
-
4. Add Toppings and Bake : Sprinkle desired toppings (sesame, poppy, etc.) on the wet surface. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on a wire rack for 15 minutes before slicing.
-
5. Serve : Slice the bagel horizontally, toast lightly, and spread with softened cream cheese. Add optional toppings like smoked salmon, cucumber, or tomato.
