Can You Make Bagels Without Boiling Them?

Boiling bagels before baking is essential because it creates that signature chewy crust. However, if you skip boiling, your bagels will have a texture more like regular bread. If you prefer a softer bagel, you can try steaming them instead.

How to Store Homemade Bagels & Keep Them Fresh?

To keep your bagels fresh: Short-term storage: Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Long-term storage: Freeze bagels in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. Toast them straight from the freezer for the best texture.

What Are the Healthiest Cream Cheese Alternatives?

If you're looking for a lighter option, try these substitutes: Greek yogurt cream cheese: Higher in protein and lower in fat. Neufchâtel cheese: Tastes like cream cheese but has less fat. Vegan cream cheese: Made from cashews, tofu, or almonds.

Can You Freeze Cream Cheese Bagels?

Yes! If you've already added cream cheese, wrap your bagel tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it. When you're ready to eat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight. You can also reheat it in the oven for a crispier texture.

Cream Cheese Bagel Recipe: Irresistible & Easy to Make

Description

This homemade cream cheese bagel recipe is easy to follow and delivers chewy, golden-brown bagels with a rich and creamy spread. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, these bagels are made from scratch and can be customized with your favorite toppings.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Bagels:

3 ½ cups bread flour
2 teaspoons instant yeast
1 ¼ cups warm water
2 tablespoons sugar
1 ½ teaspoons salt
1 tablespoon barley malt syrup or honey
1 tablespoon baking soda (for boiling water)

For the Cream Cheese Spread:

8 oz cream cheese (softened)
1 tablespoon milk or heavy cream
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
1 tablespoon fresh herbs (chives, dill, or parsley, finely chopped)

Instructions

Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix bread flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Gradually add warm water and stir until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth.
First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise for 1 hour until doubled in size.
Shape the Bagels: Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal portions. Roll each piece into a ball and poke a hole in the center to form a bagel shape.
Boil the Bagels: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add baking soda. Boil bagels for 45-60 seconds per side, then transfer them to a lined baking sheet.
Bake: Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Brush bagels with an egg wash if desired and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Let them cool on a wire rack.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Spread: In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, milk, salt, and optional garlic powder until smooth. Stir in fresh herbs for extra flavor.
Assemble & Serve: Slice the bagels, spread with cream cheese, and enjoy!

Notes

For a sweeter version, add cinnamon and raisins to the dough.
Store bagels in an airtight container for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.
Toast bagels before serving for extra crunch.
Try different toppings like smoked salmon, honey, or fresh fruit for variety.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Cuisine: American, New York-Style

Nutrition

Calories: 280
Sugar: 4g
Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Protein: 9g

Keywords: cream cheese bagel recipe, homemade bagel, easy bagel recipe, New York bagel, breakfast bagel