The Best Cream Cheese Toppings for Your Morning Bagel

There’s nothing quite like a freshly toasted bagel slathered with smooth, creamy cheese to start your morning. Whether you love the classic simplicity of plain cream cheese or prefer bold and exciting flavors, the right topping can take your bagel from ordinary to extraordinary.

From sweet and fruity spreads to savory and protein-packed options, there’s a cream cheese topping for every taste and craving. In this guide, we’ll explore the best cream cheese toppings to enhance your morning bagel experience. Whether you’re looking for a traditional New York-style bagel with lox, a healthy Greek yogurt cream cheese blend, or a decadent maple and whipped cream cheese combo, we’ve got you covered.

1. Classic Cream Cheese Toppings for a Traditional Bagel Experience

When it comes to bagels and cream cheese, sometimes classic is best. Traditional cream cheese toppings are beloved for their simplicity, creaminess, and perfect balance of flavors. Whether you’re enjoying a New York-style bagel or a fresh homemade one, these classic combinations will never disappoint.

Plain Cream Cheese – A Timeless Favorite

A plain bagel with plain cream cheese may seem simple, but it’s a classic for a reason. The creamy texture and mild, tangy flavor of traditional cream cheese allow the chewy, golden-brown bagel to shine. This pairing is perfect when you want a straightforward, satisfying breakfast that pairs well with coffee or tea.

Best bagels to pair with plain cream cheese:

• Plain bagel
• Sesame bagel
• Whole wheat bagel

Everything Bagel with Cream Cheese – A Match Made in Heaven

The everything bagel is a staple in bagel shops across the country, packed with garlic, onion, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, and salt. When paired with plain or whipped cream cheese, the combination creates a flavor explosion that is savory, slightly crunchy, and irresistibly delicious.

For an extra kick, try adding:

• A sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning on top of the cream cheese.
• A drizzle of honey for a perfect balance of sweet and savory.

Scallion or Chive Cream Cheese – A Subtle Savory Kick

For those who love a hint of freshness in their morning bagel, scallion or chive cream cheese is a must-try. The mild oniony bite of fresh scallions adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy spread, making it a popular choice for those who prefer savory over sweet.

Best bagels to pair with scallion cream cheese:

• Everything bagel
• Onion bagel
• Pumpernickel bagel

Toasted Bagel with Butter and Cream Cheese – A Rich and Buttery Delight

If you love an extra indulgent twist, try spreading a little butter on your toasted bagel before adding cream cheese. The warm, melted butter enhances the bagel’s flavor, while the cool, creamy cheese adds a delicious contrast. This combo is especially great on a toasted plain or sesame bagel.

2. Sweet Cream Cheese Toppings for a Delicious Morning Treat

If you have a sweet tooth in the morning, pairing a bagel with sweet cream cheese toppings is a fantastic way to start the day. Whether you love fruity, spiced, or indulgent flavors, sweet cream cheese spreads offer a delightful contrast to the chewy texture of a bagel. These toppings work well on a variety of bagel flavors, from plain and cinnamon raisin to blueberry and chocolate chip.

Strawberry Cream Cheese with Fresh Berries – A Fruity Delight

For a fresh and flavorful start to your day, strawberry cream cheese is a must-try. The natural sweetness of strawberries blends beautifully with the smooth and tangy cream cheese, creating a light and refreshing spread.

To make this even better, top your bagel with:

• Fresh sliced strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for extra sweetness and a burst of antioxidants.
• A drizzle of honey or maple syrup to enhance the fruit’s natural flavors.
• Chopped nuts (such as almonds or pecans) for a crunchy texture.

Best bagels for strawberry cream cheese:

• Blueberry bagel
• Plain bagel
• Cinnamon raisin bagel

Cinnamon Raisin Bagel with Honey Walnut Cream Cheese – Perfectly Spiced

One of the most popular sweet bagel combinations is a cinnamon raisin bagel with honey walnut cream cheese. The warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg, combined with the sweet raisins and crunchy walnuts, create an irresistible breakfast treat.

Enhance this combination by adding:

• A sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top for extra warmth and sweetness.
• A few crushed walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch.
• A light drizzle of honey to amplify the natural sweetness.

Whipped Cream Cheese with Maple Syrup – Light and Indulgent

For a silky smooth and subtly sweet treat, try whipped cream cheese mixed with a touch of maple syrup. This combination is perfectly creamy, slightly airy, and naturally sweet, making it an excellent alternative to sugary jams or spreads.

To take it up a notch:

• Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor.
• Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
• Pair it with a toasted whole wheat or multigrain bagel for a balance of nutty and sweet flavors.

Best bagels for whipped cream cheese with maple syrup:

• Whole wheat bagel
• Multigrain bagel
• Plain bagel

Chocolate Chip Cream Cheese on a Plain or Chocolate Chip Bagel – A Dessert-Like Indulgence

If you want to treat yourself in the morning, a chocolate chip bagel with chocolate chip cream cheese is like having dessert for breakfast. The rich, creamy, and slightly sweet chocolate chip cream cheese melts slightly on a warm bagel, making it a heavenly indulgence.

To make it even better:

• Add a sprinkle of cocoa powder for extra richness.
• Top with shaved dark chocolate for a gourmet touch.
• Drizzle with caramel or chocolate sauce for an ultra-decadent experience.

3. Savory Cream Cheese Toppings for a Hearty Breakfast

If you prefer savory flavors over sweet in the morning, adding hearty and flavorful toppings to your cream cheese bagel can create a satisfying, protein-packed breakfast. From classic lox and cream cheese to more modern combinations like avocado and everything bagel seasoning, these toppings add depth, texture, and richness to your morning meal.

Lox and Cream Cheese – A New York Favorite

One of the most iconic bagel combinations is the lox and cream cheese bagel, also known as bagel and lox. Originating in New York delis, this dish features silky, smoked salmon atop a generous spread of cream cheese, creating a perfect balance of creamy, smoky, and salty flavors.

For the ultimate bagel and lox experience, add:

• Thinly sliced red onions for a mild bite.
• Capers for a pop of briny, tangy flavor.
• Fresh dill for a fragrant, herby touch.

Best bagels for lox and cream cheese:

• Everything bagel
• Sesame bagel
• Pumpernickel bagel

Avocado and Everything Bagel Seasoning – Creamy and Flavorful

For a modern twist on a cream cheese bagel, adding sliced avocado and everything bagel seasoning is a delicious way to enjoy a nutritious and filling breakfast. The buttery avocado complements the smooth cream cheese, while the seasoning mix adds a savory, slightly crunchy texture.

To enhance this combination, try:

• A drizzle of olive oil or lemon juice for extra flavor.
• Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• A fried or poached egg on top for added protein and richness.

Best bagels for avocado and cream cheese:

• Whole wheat bagel
• Everything bagel
• Plain bagel

Herbed Cream Cheese with Smoked Salmon – A Gourmet Touch

For an elevated, restaurant-quality bagel, try pairing herbed cream cheese with smoked salmon. Herbed cream cheese is typically made by mixing cream cheese with fresh or dried herbs like chives, dill, parsley, and basil, adding depth and freshness to the spread.

For even more flavor, add:

• Thinly sliced cucumbers for a crisp contrast.
• A squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the dish.
• Microgreens or arugula for a peppery bite.

Sun-Dried Tomato and Garlic Cream Cheese – A Mediterranean-Inspired Twist

For a rich and slightly tangy flavor, mixing sun-dried tomatoes and roasted garlic into cream cheese creates an irresistibly bold spread. This Mediterranean-inspired combo pairs well with a toasted multigrain or whole wheat bagel.

Enhance this spread by adding:

• Black olives for a salty, briny touch.
• Crumbled feta cheese for extra creaminess.
• A drizzle of balsamic glaze for a hint of sweetness.

Best bagels for sun-dried tomato and garlic cream cheese:

• Whole wheat bagel
• Multigrain bagel
• Onion bagel

4. Healthy and Nutritious Cream Cheese Toppings

If you’re looking for a nutritious yet delicious way to enjoy your morning bagel, there are plenty of wholesome and balanced cream cheese toppings to try. By incorporating fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, and superfoods, you can turn your bagel into a protein-rich, fiber-filled, and vitamin-packed breakfast that fuels your day. These healthy combinations prove that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for nutrition!

Greek Yogurt Cream Cheese with Fresh Berries – A Protein Boost

Swapping regular cream cheese for Greek yogurt cream cheese is an easy way to add more protein and probiotics to your diet while keeping the same creamy texture. When paired with fresh berries, this topping provides natural sweetness, antioxidants, and fiber for a refreshing and nutritious start to the day.

For extra health benefits, add:

• Chia seeds or flaxseeds for omega-3 fatty acids and fiber.
• A drizzle of raw honey for a touch of natural sweetness.
• Slivered almonds or crushed walnuts for a satisfying crunch.

Best bagels for Greek yogurt cream cheese with berries:

• Whole wheat bagel
• Multigrain bagel
• Blueberry bagel

Avocado and Spinach Cream Cheese – A Superfood Powerhouse

By blending cream cheese with mashed avocado and finely chopped spinach, you create a nutrient-dense spread that’s packed with healthy fats, fiber, iron, and vitamins. This combination is ideal for those who want a savory, creamy topping that’s as healthy as it is flavorful.

Enhance this spread with:

• Lemon zest or juice to brighten the flavor.
• A sprinkle of hemp seeds for extra protein and omega-3s.
• A pinch of black pepper or red pepper flakes for a slight kick.

Best bagels for avocado and spinach cream cheese:

• Whole grain bagel
• Multigrain bagel
• Everything bagel

Nut Butter and Cream Cheese – A Protein-Packed Combo

For a unique and nutritious twist, mixing natural almond butter, peanut butter, or cashew butter with cream cheese creates a high-protein, high-fiber spread that provides healthy fats and long-lasting energy.

To elevate this combination, try:

• A sprinkle of cinnamon for warmth and natural sweetness.
• Banana slices for potassium and extra flavor.
• Cacao nibs for a crunchy, antioxidant-rich boost.

Best bagels for nut butter and cream cheese:

• Whole wheat bagel
• Cinnamon raisin bagel
• Multigrain bagel

Cucumber and Dill Cream Cheese – Light and Refreshing

If you prefer a light and refreshing breakfast, try topping your bagel with cucumber slices and herbed cream cheese. This combination is hydrating, low in calories, and full of fiber, making it a perfect option for a light but satisfying meal.

For an added boost of flavor and nutrients, include:

• A pinch of sea salt and black pepper to enhance the taste.
• Fresh dill or parsley for an herby touch.
• A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for healthy fats.

Best bagels for cucumber and dill cream cheese:

• Whole wheat bagel
• Multigrain bagel
• Rye bagel

5. DIY Cream Cheese Blends to Try at Home

Making your own flavored cream cheese spreads at home allows you to customize the taste, texture, and nutritional value of your bagel toppings. Instead of relying on store-bought varieties, you can experiment with fresh ingredients to create sweet, savory, or spicy blends that suit your preferences. Plus, DIY cream cheese blends eliminate unnecessary additives and preservatives, giving you a fresher, healthier option. For a smoother and easier blending experience, consider using an immersion blender like the Ninja CI105BRN Hand Blender, which helps achieve a smooth, creamy texture every time.

1. Honey and Cinnamon Cream Cheese – Sweet and Comforting

A naturally sweet and aromatic spread, this honey and cinnamon cream cheese is perfect for those who love a touch of warmth in their breakfast. The combination of creamy, spiced, and subtly sweet flavors makes this a cozy and satisfying choice, especially on toasted cinnamon raisin or whole wheat bagels.

How to make it:

• 4 oz (½ cup) cream cheese, softened
• 1 tbsp honey
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• Optional: A pinch of nutmeg or a few chopped pecans

Best bagels to pair with:

• Cinnamon raisin bagel
• Whole wheat bagel
• Plain bagel

2. Roasted Garlic and Herb Cream Cheese – Savory and Flavorful

For a rich, garlicky twist, this blend is perfect for a savory breakfast or snack. Roasting garlic mellows its sharpness, creating a smooth, buttery, and slightly sweet flavor that complements the creamy tang of cream cheese. Fresh herbs like chives, parsley, and dill add a burst of freshness.

How to make it:

• 4 oz (½ cup) cream cheese, softened
• 2 cloves roasted garlic, mashed
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (chives, dill, parsley, or basil)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Best bagels to pair with:

• Everything bagel
• Onion bagel
• Whole wheat bagel

3. Spicy Jalapeño and Cheddar Cream Cheese – A Bold Kick

If you love bold and spicy flavors, this jalapeño and cheddar cream cheese blend is a must-try. The sharpness of cheddar cheese combined with the heat from fresh jalapeños creates an exciting flavor contrast, making your morning bagel anything but boring.

How to make it:

• 4 oz (½ cup) cream cheese, softened
• ½ fresh jalapeño, finely diced (remove seeds for less heat)
• 2 tbsp shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• A pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper (optional)

Best bagels to pair with:

• Jalapeño cheddar bagel
• Everything bagel
• Plain bagel

4. Strawberry and Walnut Cream Cheese – Fruity and Crunchy

For a light, refreshing, and slightly crunchy twist, this strawberry and walnut cream cheese is a delicious way to enjoy a naturally sweet and nutty flavor profile. The juicy, slightly tangy strawberries pair perfectly with the creamy cheese and crunchy walnuts, creating a balanced texture and taste.

How to make it:

• 4 oz (½ cup) cream cheese, softened
• 3–4 fresh strawberries, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp chopped walnuts
• 1 tsp maple syrup or honey (optional for extra sweetness)

Best bagels to pair with:

• Plain bagel
• Blueberry bagel
• Whole wheat bagel

5. Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Cream Cheese – Mediterranean-Inspired

For a Mediterranean-inspired spread, try this sun-dried tomato and basil cream cheese. The tangy, umami-rich sun-dried tomatoes combined with fragrant basil create a savory and herbaceous spread that pairs well with hearty bagels.

How to make it:

• 4 oz (½ cup) cream cheese, softened
• 2 tbsp finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained)
• 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
• A pinch of garlic powder or a drizzle of olive oil (optional for added richness)

Best bagels to pair with:

• Multigrain bagel
• Everything bagel
• Whole wheat bagel