Bagels are a beloved breakfast staple. They come in many flavors and can be topped with countless ingredients. The right topping can turn a plain bagel into a tasty meal.
You can enjoy bagels at any time of day with the right toppings. From classic cream cheese to unique combos, there are options for every taste. Sweet or savory, simple or fancy – bagel toppings offer endless ways to satisfy your cravings.
Cream cheese spread is a classic bagel topping that never goes out of style. You can find it in various flavors at the store or make your own at home.
Plain cream cheese is versatile and pairs well with both sweet and savory toppings. For a twist, try whipped cream cheese for a lighter texture.
You can easily customize your cream cheese spread. Mix in herbs, spices, or chopped vegetables for added flavor. Sweet versions with fruit or honey are also tasty options.
Spread your cream cheese generously on a toasted bagel for the best experience. It creates a creamy base for other toppings or stands alone as a simple, satisfying treat.
Smoked salmon is a popular bagel topping that adds a rich, savory flavor to your breakfast or brunch. To make this classic combo, start with a toasted bagel as your base.
Spread a layer of cream cheese on both halves of the bagel. Place thin slices of smoked salmon on top of the cream cheese.
Add some thinly sliced red onion and capers for extra flavor and crunch. You can also include sliced cucumber or tomato if you like.
For a finishing touch, sprinkle some fresh dill over the top. A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten up the flavors.
Avocado slices make a tasty and nutritious topping for your bagel. Simply cut a ripe avocado in half, remove the pit, and slice it into thin pieces.
Arrange the slices on your toasted bagel for a creamy texture and buttery flavor. You can mash the avocado slightly if you prefer a smoother spread.
Add a squeeze of lemon juice to keep the avocado fresh and bright. Sprinkle some salt and pepper on top to enhance the taste.
For extra flavor, try adding thin tomato slices or a drizzle of hot sauce. Avocado pairs well with many other toppings, so feel free to get creative with your combinations.
Tomato and basil make a classic combo for your bagel. Slice a ripe tomato and place it on your cream cheese-covered bagel. Add fresh basil leaves on top.
This pairing brings a burst of summer flavor to your breakfast or lunch. The juicy tomato adds freshness, while the basil provides a nice herb taste.
For extra flavor, sprinkle some salt and pepper on top. You can also try adding a drizzle of olive oil or balsamic vinegar for a fancy touch.
This topping works great on plain, whole wheat, or everything bagels. It’s a light and tasty choice that’s perfect for warm days.
Peanut butter and banana make a tasty pair on a bagel. Spread creamy peanut butter on your toasted bagel for a protein-rich base.
Slice a ripe banana and layer the pieces on top. The sweet banana balances the salty peanut butter nicely.
This combo gives you energy from complex carbs and healthy fats. It’s filling and nutritious, perfect for breakfast or a snack.
You can customize it by using crunchy peanut butter or adding a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness. This simple topping works well on any type of bagel.
Hummus and cucumber make a tasty and healthy bagel topping. Spread a layer of creamy hummus on your toasted bagel. Add thin slices of cool, crisp cucumber on top.
This combo gives you a mix of protein from the chickpeas in the hummus and refreshing crunch from the cucumber. You can sprinkle some black pepper or add a dash of olive oil for extra flavor.
For more variety, try different hummus flavors like roasted red pepper or garlic. You can also add some sliced radishes or sprouts to give your bagel more texture and nutrients.
Nutella and strawberries make a tasty bagel topping combo. Spread a layer of creamy Nutella on your warm bagel. Add sliced fresh strawberries on top.
The chocolate-hazelnut flavor of Nutella pairs well with the sweet-tart strawberries. This topping works great on plain, whole wheat, or even cinnamon raisin bagels.
For extra indulgence, try toasting the bagel first. The warm, crispy bagel will slightly melt the Nutella. You can also add a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey if you want it sweeter.
Egg and cheese is a classic bagel topping that’s hard to beat. You can’t go wrong with a fried egg and melted cheese on a warm, toasted bagel.
For the best results, use a freshly toasted bagel. Add a slice of cheese while it’s still hot. Then top it with a fried egg, sunny-side up or over easy.
You can mix things up by trying different cheese types. Cheddar, Swiss, or American all work well. For extra flavor, sprinkle some salt and pepper on top.
This combo makes a filling breakfast or quick lunch. It’s tasty, protein-packed, and sure to keep you full for hours.
Sausage and egg make a classic bagel topping. Cook breakfast sausage patties until they’re browned and crispy. Fry eggs to your liking – sunny side up or over easy work well.
Place the sausage on your toasted bagel first. Top it with the fried egg. Add a slice of cheese if you want extra flavor. American or cheddar cheese melt nicely.
This hearty combo gives you protein to start your day. It’s filling and tastes great. You can make it ahead and reheat it for busy mornings.
Pesto and mozzarella make a tasty bagel topping combo. Spread pesto on your bagel first for a burst of basil flavor. Add slices of fresh mozzarella on top.
For extra flavor, try roasting some tomatoes to add. The roasted tomatoes bring sweetness that goes well with the pesto and cheese. You can also use sun-dried tomatoes instead.
This topping works great on any type of bagel. Try it on an everything bagel for even more flavor. It’s like eating a caprese salad on a bagel.
Turkey and avocado make a tasty bagel combo. Start with a toasted bagel of your choice. Spread mashed avocado on both halves.
Add sliced turkey on top of the avocado. You can use deli turkey or leftover roast turkey. For extra flavor, try black pepper turkey.
Add some sliced tomato and lettuce if you like. A schmear of cream cheese can add richness. Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning on top for crunch and flavor.
This sandwich gives you protein from the turkey and healthy fats from the avocado. It’s filling and nutritious. The creamy avocado pairs well with the savory turkey.
Roast beef and horseradish make a classic bagel topping combo. Start by spreading a thin layer of horseradish sauce on your bagel. Add slices of tender roast beef on top.
For extra flavor, mix some chives into the horseradish sauce. You can also add a slice of cheese, like Swiss or cheddar. Lettuce and tomato work well too.
If you want a creamier sauce, blend horseradish with sour cream. This tones down the heat a bit. Sprinkle some salt and pepper to taste.
For a zesty twist, try adding caramelized onions or pickles. These toppings bring extra tang and crunch to your roast beef bagel.
Buffalo chicken makes a tasty bagel topping. Shred cooked chicken and mix it with spicy buffalo sauce. Spread cream cheese on your bagel for a cool base.
Add the saucy chicken on top. For extra flavor, sprinkle on some blue cheese crumbles. A few thin slices of celery give a nice crunch.
This topping brings the classic flavors of buffalo wings to your bagel. It’s perfect for lunch or a hearty snack. The combination of spicy chicken and creamy cheese is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Tuna salad is a classic bagel topping that’s easy to make and packed with protein. You can whip up a quick version with canned tuna, mayo, and a dash of salt and pepper.
For extra flavor, try adding diced celery and red onion. A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the taste. Mix in some chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley for a fresh twist.
Spread your tuna salad on a toasted bagel. Top it with lettuce and tomato slices for added crunch and freshness. For a melty treat, add a slice of cheese and broil it briefly.
This bagel topping combines creamy cottage cheese with sweet pineapple chunks. Spread a thick layer of cottage cheese on your toasted bagel.
Top it with small pieces of fresh or canned pineapple. The cottage cheese adds protein and calcium to your breakfast or snack.
The pineapple brings a tropical sweetness and vitamin C. You can sprinkle on a little cinnamon for extra flavor if you like.
This combo works well on plain, whole wheat, or cinnamon raisin bagels. It’s a tasty way to enjoy cottage cheese in the morning or as an afternoon pick-me-up.
Pulled pork and coleslaw make a tasty bagel topping. You can spread a layer of tangy BBQ sauce on your bagel first. Then pile on tender, shredded pork.
Top the pork with a scoop of crunchy coleslaw. The cool, crisp slaw balances the rich meat. You can use red or green cabbage in your slaw.
For extra flavor, add some sliced dill pickles. A few crispy fried onions on top give a nice crunch. This hearty combo turns a plain bagel into a filling meal.
Bacon and egg make a classic bagel topping combo. You can’t go wrong with this hearty breakfast choice.
Start by frying up some crispy bacon. Cook an egg to your liking – scrambled, over easy, or sunny-side up all work well.
Layer the bacon and egg on your toasted bagel. Add a slice of cheese if you want extra flavor and gooeyness.
For extra taste, try adding some hot sauce or a spread of avocado. This filling topping will keep you satisfied until lunch.
Nutritional Benefits of Bagel Toppings
Bagel toppings can add important nutrients to your meal. The right choices boost protein, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats.
Protein-Packed Options
Eggs make great high-protein bagel toppings. One large egg gives you about 6 grams of protein. Scrambled, fried, or in egg salad form, eggs help build muscle.
Greek yogurt is another protein-rich option. Use it instead of mayo in tuna or chicken salad. It adds creaminess with less fat.
Hummus offers plant-based protein. Made from chickpeas, it’s perfect for vegans and vegetarians. Spread it on your bagel for a filling snack.
Nut butters like almond or peanut butter pack a protein punch too. They’re tasty and keep you full longer.
Vitamins and Minerals
Fresh veggies on your bagel add key vitamins. Try these options:
Tomatoes: Rich in vitamin C and lycopene
Spinach: Packed with iron and vitamin K
Bell peppers: High in vitamin A and C
Avocado: Good source of potassium and B vitamins
Fruits can boost nutrition too. Berries add vitamin C and antioxidants. Bananas offer potassium and vitamin B6.
Salmon, a popular bagel topping, is full of omega-3s and vitamin D. It’s great for heart and bone health.
Healthy Fats
Avocado is a top choice for healthy fats. It’s rich in monounsaturated fats that are good for your heart. Mash it on your bagel for a creamy spread.
Nuts and seeds add crunch and healthy fats. Try:
Chia seeds: High in omega-3 fatty acids
Sunflower seeds: Rich in vitamin E
Walnuts: Packed with heart-healthy fats
Olive oil is another good fat source. Drizzle it on your bagel with some herbs for a tasty twist.
Nut butters offer healthy fats too. They’re filling and give you energy. Just watch your portion size, as they’re high in calories.
Pairing Bagel Toppings with Different Types of Bagels
Different bagel varieties pair well with specific toppings. The flavors and textures of the bagel can complement or contrast with various spreads and ingredients.
Whole Wheat Bagels
Whole wheat bagels have a nutty, hearty flavor that works well with both savory and sweet toppings. Try spreading avocado on your whole wheat bagel and topping it with sliced tomatoes and a sprinkle of salt. The creamy avocado balances the bagel’s density.
For a protein-packed option, add hummus and sliced cucumbers. The fresh crunch pairs nicely with the bagel’s chewy texture.
If you prefer something sweet, try almond butter with sliced bananas. The natural sweetness of the fruit complements the bagel’s earthy flavor.
Everything Bagels
Everything bagels are covered in a mix of poppy seeds, sesame seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and salt. This flavorful combination calls for bold toppings.
Cream cheese is a classic choice. Add some smoked salmon, capers, and thinly sliced red onion for a traditional “lox and bagel” experience. The salty, smoky flavors enhance the bagel’s seasoning.
For a vegetarian option, try egg salad with chopped chives. The creamy eggs balance the bagel’s crunchy exterior.
A spicy option is jalapeño cream cheese with sliced turkey. The heat from the peppers pairs well with the garlicky bagel.
Cinnamon Raisin Bagels
Cinnamon raisin bagels have a sweet, spiced flavor that pairs well with both sweet and savory toppings. For a comforting breakfast, spread butter on your warm bagel and let it melt into the nooks and crannies.
If you’re craving something sweeter, try cream cheese with a drizzle of honey. The tangy cream cheese balances the bagel’s sweetness.
For a unique twist, spread peanut butter on your bagel and top it with thin apple slices. The fruit’s tartness contrasts nicely with the cinnamon flavor.
A savory option is turkey and Swiss cheese. The mild flavors of the meat and cheese don’t overpower the bagel’s sweetness.
Creative Combinations and Recipes
Bagels offer a versatile canvas for unique flavor pairings. Try these exciting topping ideas to transform your bagel from basic to extraordinary.
Sweet and Savory Mixes
Combine sweet and savory flavors for a taste sensation. Spread cream cheese on your bagel and top with sliced strawberries and crumbled bacon. The sweetness of the fruit balances the salty bacon perfectly.
For a Mediterranean twist, try fig jam and prosciutto. The sweet jam complements the salty meat, creating a delicious contrast.
Another option is peanut butter with sliced banana and a drizzle of honey. This combination gives you protein, healthy fats, and natural sweetness all in one bite.
Lastly, try goat cheese with roasted grapes and a sprinkle of thyme. The tangy cheese pairs well with the sweet grapes, while thyme adds an herbal note.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Create tasty meat-free bagel toppings with these ideas. Spread hummus on your bagel and top with sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and sprouts. This fresh combo is packed with veggies and protein.
For a vegan option, try mashed avocado with lemon juice and red pepper flakes. The creamy avocado and zesty lemon make a great pair, while the pepper adds a spicy kick.
Another idea is to spread vegan cream cheese on your bagel and top with sliced apples and cinnamon. This sweet and spicy mix is perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Try roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant with a dollop of pesto. This Mediterranean-inspired topping is full of flavor and nutrients.
Kid-Friendly Ideas
Make bagels fun for kids with these creative ideas. Spread peanut butter on a bagel and use sliced fruit to make a smiley face. Use banana slices for eyes, a strawberry for a nose, and orange segments for a mouth.
Try a “pizza” bagel by spreading tomato sauce on a bagel half, adding shredded cheese, and toasting until melted. Let kids add their favorite toppings like pepperoni or vegetables.
Make a “rainbow” bagel by using different colored cream cheese. Mix food coloring into plain cream cheese to create various shades. Let kids spread the colors in stripes across their bagel.
For a sweet treat, spread Nutella on a bagel and top with sliced bananas and a sprinkle of mini chocolate chips. This combo tastes like dessert but is still nutritious.
Cassie brings decades of experience to the Kitchen Community. She is a noted chef and avid gardener. Her new book "Healthy Eating Through the Garden" will be released shortly. When not writing or speaking about food and gardens Cassie can be found puttering around farmer's markets and greenhouses looking for the next great idea.
