If bagels are the canvas, cream cheese is the paint, and some flavors are just straight-up masterpieces.
Whether you’re a die-hard everything bagel lover or a plain-with-strawberry-purist, your cream cheese choice can completely change your bite. We tasted and ranked five of the most beloved flavored Western Bagel cream cheeses to settle the debate: Which one truly reigns supreme?
Here’s our definitive ranking, from “solid standby” to “can’t-live-without-it.”
Best with: Everything, sesame, plain, cinnamon raisin, egg… basically any Western Bagel!
Why it wins:
Sometimes the OG just does it better. Classic cream cheese is rich, tangy, creamy, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re layering on lox, honey, or tomato slices, this flavor is the base that never fails. It doesn’t fight for attention—it just makes your Western Bagel better.
Bonus points: It’s the foundation for every other flavor on this list.
Best with: Everything or whole wheat bagels!
Why we love it:
Creamy with little pops of crunch from carrots, scallions, and bell peppers, veggie cream cheese brings texture and flavor. It’s like a garden party on your bagel—fresh, savory, and satisfying.
Hot tip: Try it on a toasted everything Western Bagel with avocado slices.
Best with: Strawberry, cinnamon raisin, blueberry, or plain bagels!
Sweet tooth, rejoice:
This pink spread is smooth and lightly fruity, hitting that perfect balance between dessert and breakfast. It doesn’t overpower, but it adds a gentle sweetness that plays well with toasty carbs.
When it shines: On a warm cinnamon raisin Western Bagel with a drizzle of honey.
Best with: Poppy seed or sesame bagels!
Why it made the list:
For savory lovers, onion cream cheese is bold, flavorful, and a little funky (in a good way). It’s like the middle ground between classic and veggie—without all the crunch but with all the flavor.
Tip: Pairs surprisingly well with smoked meats or even bacon for a breakfast sandwich upgrade.
Best with: Cheddar, plain, or everything bagels!
The wildcard:
Spicy, creamy, and a little unexpected. Jalapeño cream cheese isn’t for everyone, but if you love a kick in the morning, this will be your jam. The spice level is usually mild, but it brings a welcome heat that cuts through the richness.
Fun idea: Spread it on a whole wheat Western Bagel and top it with eggs!
Cream cheese is personal—maybe even emotional. While classic takes the crown for its versatility and pure comfort, every flavor brings something unique to the table (or toaster). Whether you like it sweet, spicy, or garden-fresh, the beauty is that there’s no wrong way to schmear.
What’s your #1 cream cheese flavor—and what’s your go-to bagel pairing?
Western Bagel Baking Corporation
7814 Sepulveda Blvd., Van Nuys, CA 91405
