Bagels are a versatile breakfast option that can be topped with much more than just plain cream cheese. From sweet to savory, the right topping can transform a simple bagel into a delicious meal that satisfies your hunger and taste buds alike.
You can experiment with various combinations like avocado and egg, peanut butter and granola, or even bacon, egg and cheese to elevate your bagel experience. Whether you prefer traditional flavors or want to try something new, there’s a bagel topping for everyone. The options are endless, allowing you to customize your bagel based on your mood or dietary preferences.
1. Cream Cheese with Smoked Salmon
Cream cheese with smoked salmon creates a delicious bagel topping that’s both rich and flavorful. This classic combination offers a perfect balance of creamy and savory tastes.
To make this topping, spread a layer of cream cheese on your bagel, then add slices of smoked salmon on top. You can mix lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper into the cream cheese for extra flavor.
Add sliced tomatoes, red onions, or capers to enhance the taste. Cucumber slices and fresh dill sprigs make great additions too.
This topping works on any bagel type, but is especially good on plain, everything, or sesame bagels.
2. Avocado and Poached Egg
Avocado and poached egg make a perfect bagel topping combination that balances flavor and nutrition. The creamy texture of mashed avocado pairs wonderfully with the runny yolk of a perfectly poached egg.
To prepare this topping, simply spread mashed ripe avocado on your toasted bagel and place a poached egg on top. For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes.
This combination provides healthy fats from the avocado and protein from the egg. You can enhance it with extras like spinach for iron or a dash of bagel seasoning for more flavor.
3. Peanut Butter and Banana
Peanut butter and banana make a perfect pair on bagels. This combination offers a blend of creamy, sweet flavors that work on almost any bagel variety.
Try spreading chunky or smooth peanut butter on a toasted bagel, then top with sliced bananas. For extra flavor, add a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
This topping works especially well on cinnamon raisin, blueberry, or plain bagels. Some people enhance this combination by adding nuts like pistachios, cashews, or almonds for extra crunch.
This protein-rich topping gives you a filling breakfast or snack that provides lasting energy throughout your day.
4. Nutella with Strawberries
Nutella and strawberries create a delicious sweet topping for bagels. This combination pairs creamy chocolate-hazelnut spread with fresh fruit for a breakfast that feels like a treat.
To make this topping, simply spread Nutella on your toasted bagel and top with sliced fresh strawberries. The warm bagel helps melt the Nutella slightly, making it even more delicious.
Some bagel shops offer this as a specialty item, and it’s especially popular around Valentine’s Day as a special breakfast option. You can even find protein-rich bagels that make this sweet combination a bit more nutritious.
The contrast between the chocolate spread and bright red berries makes this not just tasty but visually appealing too.
5. Bacon, Egg, and Cheese
A bacon, egg, and cheese bagel is a classic breakfast option that satisfies hunger and tastes amazing. The combination offers a perfect balance of savory flavors.
Choose your bagel type based on personal preference – plain, everything, or even cinnamon raisin can work well. Toast your bagel until it’s warm and slightly crispy.
Layer crispy bacon strips, a fried egg (or scrambled if you prefer), and melted cheese of your choice. Cheddar, American, and Swiss are popular options.
Add a spread of sriracha ketchup or guacamole to elevate the flavor profile.
This hearty combination provides protein and energy to start your day right.
6. Lox with Capers and Red Onion
Lox with capers and red onion is a classic bagel topping that brings a perfect balance of flavors. This combination starts with cream cheese as the base, topped with thinly sliced smoked salmon (lox).
The addition of briny capers adds a salty pop, while thin slices of red onion provide a sharp crunch that cuts through the richness. Many people also include fresh dill for a bright, herbal note.
You can find this topping on an everything bagel for extra flavor, or choose a plain bagel to let the lox shine.
This open-faced sandwich is not only delicious but also quick to prepare and packed with protein.
7. Hummus and Cucumber
Hummus and cucumber create a refreshing and healthy bagel topping combination. Spread a thick layer of hummus on your toasted bagel for a protein-rich base.
Slice cucumbers thinly and arrange them on top of the hummus for a satisfying crunch. The coolness of cucumber pairs perfectly with the creamy, nutty flavor of hummus.
You can enhance this combination with extras like dill, sliced onion, or a squeeze of lemon juice. For variety, try adding avocado slices or bell peppers.
This topping works well on any bagel, but especially complements everything bagels where the seasoning adds extra flavor.
8. Roast Beef with Horseradish
Roast beef with horseradish cream cheese makes for a delicious and satisfying bagel topping. This savory combination offers a perfect balance of flavors.
To prepare it, mix cream cheese with creamy horseradish sauce (about 2 tablespoons cream cheese to 2/3 tablespoon horseradish). Spread this mixture on your bagel of choice.
Layer thinly sliced roast beef on top of the horseradish cream cheese. You can enhance the flavor by adding red onion, capers, or even smashed avocado.
For extra texture and taste, consider adding Swiss cheese or caramelized onions.
This protein-packed topping works particularly well on plain, everything, or onion bagels.
9. Turkey and Cranberry Sauce
Turkey and cranberry sauce make a delicious bagel topping combination that’s perfect for using leftover holiday turkey or deli slices any time of year.
Simply spread a thin layer of mayonnaise or cream cheese on your bagel halves. Add roasted turkey slices on one side, then top with cranberry sauce.
For extra flavor, consider adding Swiss cheese, arugula, red onion, or even Granny Smith apple slices. Some people also enjoy adding bacon for a savory crunch.
This sweet and savory pairing works well on any type of bagel, though plain, whole wheat, or everything bagels are popular choices.
10. Mozzarella and Tomato with Basil
This classic combination brings the flavors of Italy to your bagel. Start with a toasted bagel spread with a layer of cream cheese.
Add slices of fresh mozzarella cheese and tomato on top. For extra flavor, try roasting cherry tomatoes until they’re slightly caramelized.
Finish with fresh basil leaves or spread some pesto on the bagel first. The combination creates a caprese-style bagel that’s both fresh and satisfying.
A sprinkle of salt and pepper helps bring all the flavors together. You can also add a drizzle of olive oil for an authentic touch.
11. Spicy Tuna Salad
Spicy tuna salad takes your bagel game to the next level with its zesty flavor. It’s easy to make by mixing canned tuna with mayo, hot sauce, and diced jalapeños.
Spread this spicy mixture generously on your bagel, then add crunchy veggies like lettuce, cucumber, and tomato for freshness. Some people like to sprinkle seeds on top for extra texture.
For an Asian-inspired twist, try adding crinkled nori (seaweed) on top of your tuna. The combination of heat from the spicy mayo and the coolness of fresh vegetables creates a perfect balance.
This topping works on everything bagels, plain bagels, or even toasted onion bagels for extra flavor.
12. Ricotta and Honey
Ricotta cheese paired with honey creates a delightful sweet and creamy topping for your bagel. This simple combination offers a perfect balance of flavors.
You can use traditional dairy ricotta or try almond milk ricotta for a plant-based option. Spread about 2 ounces of ricotta on your toasted bagel.
Drizzle a teaspoon of raw honey over the ricotta. For extra flavor, add a dash of cinnamon.
This topping works well on any type of bagel, but pairs especially nicely with plain, whole wheat, or cinnamon raisin varieties. It makes for a satisfying breakfast that isn’t too heavy.
13. Apple Slices and Cheddar
Apple slices and cheddar cheese make an amazing bagel topping that combines sweet and savory flavors. The crisp, juicy apple provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy, sharp cheddar.
Try placing thin slices of apple and white cheddar on your toasted bagel. For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of rosemary or a drizzle of honey.
This combination works best on whole wheat or plain bagels. You can use any apple variety you prefer, though tart apples like Granny Smith pair especially well with sharp cheddar.
For a complete breakfast, add the apple and cheddar to a bagel that’s been lightly spread with cream cheese first.
14. Sun-dried Tomato and Pesto
Sun-dried tomato and pesto make a spectacular topping combination for your bagel. The tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes paired with the herbal richness of basil pesto creates a perfect balance of flavors.
For the best experience, spread cream cheese on one half of your toasted bagel and pesto on the other. Then place drained sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil) between the halves.
Quality matters here. Look for pesto with basil as the first ingredient, combined with oil, pine nuts, and other traditional components.
This Mediterranean-inspired combination works wonderfully on sourdough bagels. Some people also add turkey slices for a more substantial meal.
15. Greek Yogurt with Berries
Greek yogurt makes a protein-packed alternative to cream cheese on your bagel. It’s tangy, creamy, and pairs wonderfully with fresh berries.
Simply spread a layer of plain Greek yogurt on your toasted bagel. Add a handful of blueberries, strawberries, or raspberries on top.
For extra flavor, drizzle with a bit of honey or sprinkle with cinnamon.
You can also mix the yogurt with a touch of vanilla extract or sweeten it slightly before spreading. This creates a breakfast that’s both satisfying and refreshing.
16. Spinach and Artichoke Spread
Spinach and artichoke spread makes for a delicious bagel topping that transforms your breakfast into something special. This savory option uses the same ingredients as the popular dip but in a more spreadable form.
To make this spread, combine cream cheese, chopped artichoke hearts, spinach, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, and a dash of red pepper flakes. The mixture creates a creamy, flavorful alternative to plain cream cheese.
You can repurpose leftover spinach artichoke dip directly onto your bagel instead of letting it go to waste. For extra flavor, try adding crumbled bacon or diced ham on top.
This spread works wonderfully on toasted bagels when served warm, allowing the cheeses to melt slightly for the best experience.
17. Jalapeño Popper Spread
Jalapeño popper spread brings a spicy kick to your bagel breakfast. You can make this tasty topping by mixing cream cheese with diced jalapeños, shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese, and bacon crumbles.
For a healthier version, use Greek yogurt as part of your base. Mix 3/4 cup Greek yogurt with cream cheese, then add 3 tablespoons diced jalapeños, 3 tablespoons bacon bits, and 1/4 cup shredded cheddar.
This spread works especially well on plain or everything bagels. For extra flavor, sprinkle some chopped green onions on top. The combination of creamy, spicy, and savory makes this topping irresistible.
18. Ham and Swiss Cheese
Ham and Swiss cheese make a classic combo for your bagel. You can enjoy this topping hot or cold depending on your preference.
For a warm version, place thin slices of ham and Swiss cheese on your bagel half and toast it until the cheese melts. The heat brings out the nutty flavor of the Swiss cheese.
If you prefer it cold, spread a thin layer of mustard on your bagel before adding the ham and cheese. Dijon mustard works especially well with this pairing.
Add some crunch by including lettuce or sprouts. You can also add tomato slices for extra freshness.
19. Almond Butter with Sliced Pear
Almond butter and sliced pear create a delicious sweet and nutty combination for your bagel. The creamy almond butter provides protein and healthy fats, while the pear adds natural sweetness and a pleasant crunch.
To prepare this topping, simply toast your bagel and spread a layer of almond butter on each half. Then arrange thin slices of fresh pear on top.
For extra flavor, you can sprinkle a bit of cinnamon or add a drizzle of honey. Some people also like to add a sprinkle of chia seeds for added nutrition and texture.
This pairing works best on whole grain bagels, but tastes great on any variety you prefer.
20. Cinnamon Butter
Cinnamon butter adds a sweet, aromatic twist to your bagel experience. This delicious spread combines softened butter with cinnamon and sugar for a simple yet satisfying topping.
You can easily make it at home by mixing room temperature butter with ground cinnamon and a touch of sugar until well combined. The warmth of cinnamon pairs perfectly with the rich butter.
Try it on plain, cinnamon swirl, or French toast bagels for best results. When spread on a warm bagel, the cinnamon butter melts slightly, creating a delightful sweet treat that works for breakfast or as an afternoon snack.
21. Buffalo Chicken
Buffalo chicken makes an exciting bagel topping for spice lovers. You can create this flavor-packed option with shredded chicken tossed in buffalo sauce.
Top your bagel with the spicy chicken mixture and add a slice of cheddar or Jack cheese. For extra flavor, include some blue cheese dressing as a spread on your bagel first.
Complete your buffalo chicken bagel with fresh lettuce and tomato to balance the heat. Some people like adding extra buffalo sauce for more kick.
This topping works well on plain bagels, but everything bagels provide a delicious seed mixture that complements the spicy buffalo chicken perfectly.
History of Bagel Toppings
Bagels have evolved from simple bread rolls to versatile breakfast staples with countless topping options. Their journey from Eastern European Jewish communities to worldwide popularity has shaped how we enjoy these dense, chewy rings today.
Origins and Cultural Influences
Bagels originated in Jewish communities in Poland, where they were initially eaten plain or with simple toppings. In early traditions, bagels were often paired with smoked fish, particularly lox (smoked salmon). This combination emerged from Eastern European Jewish cuisine and traveled to America with immigrants in the early 20th century.
When bagels gained popularity in New York City, cream cheese became the signature topping. Interestingly, this pairing didn’t become widespread until the 1930s, when Philadelphia Cream Cheese began marketing their product alongside bagels.
Traditional Jewish delis offered bagels with whitefish salad, pickled herring, and various schmears. These early toppings reflected both necessity and cultural preferences, using available ingredients that complemented the bagel’s dense texture.
Evolution of Modern Toppings
The 1960s and 1970s marked a turning point for bagel toppings as bagels moved beyond Jewish communities into mainstream American culture. During this period, flavored cream cheeses emerged alongside new bagel varieties like everything, sesame, and cinnamon raisin.
By the 1980s, bagel shops began experimenting with heartier options. Bacon, egg, and cheese bagel sandwiches became breakfast staples, despite diverging from kosher traditions. This adaptation reflected the bagel’s integration into broader American eating habits.
The 1990s food revolution introduced gourmet toppings like avocado, specialty cheeses, and artisanal spreads. According to recent data from Grubhub, while regular cream cheese remains America’s favorite bagel topping, newcomers like avocado now rank among the top five choices alongside bacon and butter.
Today’s bagel toppings reflect global influences, health trends, and creative culinary exploration, from Mediterranean-inspired spreads to plant-based alternatives.
Nutritional Insights
Understanding the nutritional value of bagel toppings helps you make choices that align with your health goals. Different toppings offer various benefits, from protein-rich options to those packed with essential vitamins and minerals.
Balancing Flavor and Health
When selecting bagel toppings, consider both taste and nutritional value. Cream cheese, a classic choice, provides calcium and protein but comes with saturated fat. For a healthier alternative, try reduced-fat versions or Greek yogurt spread, which offers similar creaminess with added protein benefits.
Avocado delivers heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and fiber. Just a quarter avocado adds richness without excessive calories.
Nut butters like peanut or almond butter provide protein and healthy fats. Choose natural versions without added sugars for maximum benefits.
For protein-focused toppings, consider:
- Smoked salmon (high in omega-3s)
- Egg (complete protein source)
- Hummus (plant-based protein and fiber)
Common Nutrient Profiles
Different bagel toppings offer distinct nutritional advantages. Here’s what you’ll get from popular options:
Protein-Rich Toppings:
- Cream cheese (2g protein per 2 tbsp)
- Peanut butter (8g protein per 2 tbsp)
- Egg (6g protein per egg)
- Tofu spread (4g protein per 2 tbsp)
Vitamin-Packed Options:
- Avocado (vitamins E, K, and B6)
- Tomato (vitamin C and potassium)
- Spinach (iron and folate)
Fruit toppings add natural sweetness plus antioxidants. Berries offer fiber and vitamin C with fewer calories than sugary spreads.
Remember that portion size matters. Even healthy toppings can add up calorie-wise if applied too generously to your bagel.
