There’s a certain warmth that infuses the kitchen when you take a bite of a freshly baked New York-Style bagel. The crust is perfectly chewy, while the interior is soft and pillowy, just begging for a generous spread of smooth cream cheese. One chilly morning, inspired by a craving, I decided to embrace the art of bagel-making that seemed both daunting and delightful. Little did I know, these homemade treats would become my go-to solution for brunch gatherings, lazy weekend breakfasts, or even a comforting late-night snack.
Imagine your friends’ faces lighting up as you present a platter of bagels, topped with everything from scallions to your favorite smoked salmon, all made right in your own kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and a dash of patience, you can create these delicious gems from scratch, ensuring they’re always fresh and tailored to your taste. So roll up your sleeves and join me in this culinary adventure, because there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of warm New York-Style bagels with cream cheese and toppings!
Why You'll Love This New York-Style Bagels with Cream Cheese and Toppings
- These New York-Style bagels are incredibly easy to make, allowing you to impress your family and friends without the need for complicated techniques.
- The flavor is unbeatable, with a perfectly chewy crust and a soft, pillowy interior that pairs beautifully with cream cheese and your favorite toppings.
- Their versatility means you can customize each bagel to cater to everyone’s tastes, whether you prefer classic toppings or something more adventurous.
- Not only are they visually appealing, creating a stunning centerpiece for any brunch, but they are also a crowd-pleasing dish that will have everyone coming back for more.
New York-Style Bagels Ingredients
For the Bagel Dough
- Warm water – 2.5 cups, this helps activate the yeast for that perfect rise in your New York-Style bagels with cream cheese and toppings.
- Active dry yeast – 2.25-ounce packets, essential for creating that airy, chewy texture we love.
- Bread flour – 8 cups, chosen for its high gluten content which gives the bagels their characteristic chewiness.
- Granulated sugar – 2 tablespoons, helps to sweeten the dough and boosts yeast activity for a better rise.
- Kosher salt – 2 tablespoons, enhances the flavor and controls the dough’s fermentation.
- Dark brown sugar – 2 tablespoons, adds a subtle depth of flavor to your bagels.
- Beaten egg – 1, adds richness to the dough and contributes to a shiny crust when baked.
For Boiling and Topping
- Egg white – 1, beaten until frothy, used to brush the bagels for a glossy finish.
- Everything bagel seasoning – 0.75 cup, this mix adds a delightful crunch and flavor explosion to your finished bagels.
For the Cream Cheese Spread
- Cream cheese – 2 8-ounce packages (at room temperature), the perfect creamy base for your toppings.
- Sliced scallion – 0.33 cup, for a fresh, oniony kick that complements the cream cheese beautifully.
How to Make New York-Style Bagels with Cream Cheese and Toppings
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Combine warm water and yeast in a large bowl. Let it stand for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step is crucial for activating the yeast, which gives your bagels that delightful rise!
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Mix in the bread flour, granulated sugar, kosher salt, dark brown sugar, beaten egg, and everything bagel seasoning. Stir until a dough forms, and don’t hesitate to get your hands in there if needed!
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Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes. Aim for a smooth, elastic texture which is key for achieving that beloved bagel chewiness.
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Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and allow it to rise in a warm area for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size. Keep an eye on it, as this is the magic moment!
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Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is essential for achieving that great crust you love on New York-style bagels.
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Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a bagel by forming a small ball and then punching a hole through the center. This may feel odd, but it’s a crucial part of bagel making!
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Boil a large pot of water. Gently drop in the bagels, boiling for 1-2 minutes on each side. This gives them that signature glance, so don’t skip this step!
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Remove the bagels and place them on a greased baking sheet. Brush each bagel with frothy egg white for that stunning glossy finish.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 20-27 minutes until they turn golden brown. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will make you giddy with anticipation!
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Let cool slightly before serving. Now it’s time to spread that warm, creamy bagel with cream cheese and your favorite toppings!
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of extra everything bagel seasoning for an added flavor boost.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
New York-Style Bagel Variations
Customize your bagels to suit every craving and occasion with these delightful variations. Each twist offers a new adventure for your taste buds!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative, like cashew or almond cream cheese, for a vegan-friendly option. You’ll get that creamy delight without the dairy!
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Whole Wheat: Swap half of the bread flour for whole wheat flour. This adds a nutty flavor and boosts nutrients while still keeping that beloved chew.
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Herb-Infused: Incorporate chopped fresh herbs like dill or chives directly into the dough for aromatic bagels. Imagine the bright flavors dancing on your palate as you take each bite!
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Sweet Treat: Add raisins or dried cranberries to the dough for a hint of sweetness. Enjoy them as breakfast bagels with cream cheese or as an afternoon snack!
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Spicy Kick: Mix in crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy twist. The heat adds an exciting contrast to the rich cream cheese spread.
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Savory Variation: For a savory surprise, fold in shredded cheese, like sharp cheddar or pepper jack, into the dough before shaping. Every bite will be rich and flavorful!
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Smoked Salmon Bagels: Top your bagels with smoked salmon, capers, and red onion instead of traditional cream cheese for a classic deli experience. It’s a flavor explosion that’ll keep you coming back for more!
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free bread flour blend to make these delicious bagels suitable for gluten-sensitive friends without sacrificing taste or texture. They’ll be amazed at how good homemade gluten-free bagels can be!
How to Store and Freeze New York-Style Bagels
Room Temperature: Store bagels in an airtight container for up to 2 days to prevent them from getting stale or dry.
Fridge: If you’re planning to keep them longer, place bagels in the fridge for up to 5 days, wrapped tightly to avoid moisture loss.
Freezer: Freeze bagels individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. This keeps them fresh for a quick warm-up later.
Reheating: To enjoy your New York-Style bagels, reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes or for a few minutes in a toaster for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste!
What to Serve with New York-Style Bagels with Cream Cheese and Toppings?
There’s nothing quite like enjoying a warm bagel, especially when it’s paired with the perfect accompaniments to elevate your meal!
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of juicy oranges, sweet strawberries, and tangy berries adds a refreshing burst of flavor to your breakfast spread.
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Smoked Salmon Platter: This classic pairing enhances the savory richness of the cream cheese, providing a delightful texture and a hint of luxury to your bagels.
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Hard-Boiled Eggs: Slice them for a protein boost that complements the flavors of the bagels and gives your meal a satisfying heartiness.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and creamy dressing create a contrasting crunch, making it a perfect light companion for a brunch gathering.
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Pickled Vegetables: The tanginess cuts through the creaminess, adding a bold kick and an exciting visual element to your bagel display.
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Chai Latte: This fragrant spiced tea complements the warm bagels beautifully, offering a cozy drink to sip alongside.
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Chocolaty Brownies: Satisfy your sweet tooth by serving brownies for dessert, balancing out the savory bagels with a bite of indulgence.
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Mimosas: This bubbly drink brightens the morning with a refreshing citrus twist, making your brunch celebration truly festive!
Make Ahead Options
These New York-Style Bagels with Cream Cheese and Toppings are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the bagel dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe until the first rise, then shape the bagels and refrigerate them (covered) overnight. When you’re ready to enjoy, just boil and bake them as directed, and you’ll have freshly baked bagels that are just as delicious as if they were made that day. For the cream cheese spread, you can also mix it up to 3 days ahead and refrigerate it; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just give it a quick stir before spreading, and serve with fresh toppings for a delightful breakfast or brunch!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Ensure your water is warm but not hot, as too high a temperature can kill the yeast, preventing your New York-Style Bagels from rising properly.
- When kneading the dough, aim for a smooth and elastic texture which is crucial for that classic bagel chewiness, so don’t rush this step.
- Allow the dough to rise in a warm environment, and cover it with a damp cloth to retain moisture and enhance the rising process.
- Be patient while boiling the bagels, as this crucial step contributes to their chewy texture and glossy finish after baking.
New York-Style Bagels with Cream Cheese and Toppings Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right ingredients for my bagels?
Absolutely! When choosing ingredients, always opt for fresh active dry yeast; if it’s not foamy after combining with warm water, it’s best to start over. For the flour, bread flour is ideal due to its higher gluten content, giving your bagels that perfect chewiness. Use room temperature cream cheese for easy spreading and a delightful taste.
How should I store my New York-Style bagels?
Very good question! For short-term storage, keep your bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you plan to enjoy them later, wrap them tightly in plastic and store in the fridge for up to 5 days to maintain freshness while preventing moisture loss.
Can I freeze New York-Style bagels for later use?
Absolutely! To freeze, first let the bagels cool completely. Then, wrap each bagel individually in plastic wrap and place them into a freezer bag. They can be preserved for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy one, just take it out and reheat it in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes or pop it in the toaster for a few minutes.
What should I do if my bagel dough doesn’t rise properly?
Oh no! If your dough doesn’t rise, it’s often due to inactive yeast. Make sure the water is warm, not hot; temperatures above 120°F (49°C) can kill the yeast. If you realize your dough hasn’t doubled in size after an hour, try placing it in a warmer spot or giving your yeast another chance. In the future, check the expiration date on your yeast packet, and remember, the yeast should be foamy when mixed with water.
Are there any dietary considerations for this bagel recipe?
Very much so! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly, but be mindful of allergies, particularly with cream cheese which may contain lactose. If you have a dairy allergy, feel free to substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative. Always check the ingredients of your everything bagel seasoning, as some brands may include allergens.
Can I customize the toppings for my bagels?
Of course! The more the merrier when it comes to toppings. You can generously layer your bagels with various spreads such as flavored cream cheeses, avocado, or even hummus. Add fresh veggies, smoked salmon, or deli meats to create a gourmet bagel experience right at home. Let your creativity flow!
New York-Style Bagels with Cream Cheese and Toppings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine warm water and yeast in a large bowl. Let it stand for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
- Mix in the bread flour, granulated sugar, kosher salt, dark brown sugar, beaten egg, and everything bagel seasoning. Stir until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and allow it to rise in a warm area for about 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a bagel.
- Boil a large pot of water. Gently drop in the bagels, boiling for 1-2 minutes on each side.
- Remove the bagels and place them on a greased baking sheet. Brush each bagel with frothy egg white.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-27 minutes until they turn golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
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