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Bagel Toppings 101: From Classic to Creative

Western Bagels are more than just chewy, delicious bread with a hole in the middle — they’re a blank canvas for flavor, texture, and creativity. Whether you’re a purist who sticks to cream cheese or a culinary adventurer stacking spicy jam and goat cheese, the right topping can elevate your bagel from basic to brilliant.

In this guide, we’re diving into Bagel Toppings 101: the essentials, the upgrades, and the wow-factor combos that’ll keep your breakfasts (or lunches… or dinners…) fresh and exciting.

The Classics: Tried-and-True Favorites

Let’s start with the foundations — the toppings that never go out of style:

Cream Cheese (Plain or Flavored)

The undisputed bagel MVP. Choose from classic plain or explore options like scallion, chive, or vegetable.

Lox (Smoked Salmon)

Cream cheese + lox = the iconic NYC combo. Upgrade it with red onion slices, capers, and a squeeze of lemon.

Butter or Margarine

Simple, nostalgic, and sometimes exactly what you need. Melts perfectly on a warm, toasted Western Bagel.

Jam or Jelly

Sweet meets savory when you pair jam with butter or flavored cream cheese — strawberry or wild berry are top contenders.

The Savory Upgrades: For Flavor-Lovers

Ready to step it up? These toppings bring the bold.

Egg & Cheese

Turn your bagel into a breakfast sandwich with scrambled or fried eggs and melted cheddar or American cheese. Add bacon or sausage if you’re going all out.

Avocado

A classic. Add salt, pepper, chili flakes, or a poached egg on top for a power-packed breakfast.

Hummus

Perfect for a dairy-free or vegan option. Top with cucumber slices, sprouts, and a dash of paprika.

Tuna or Chicken Salad

Hearty and satisfying, especially with a whole wheat or everything Western Bagel. Add lettuce and tomato for crunch.

The Sweet Side: Dessert-Style Bagels

Bagels aren’t just for savory cravings — they can be dessert too!

Peanut Butter & Banana

Protein-packed and naturally sweet. Add a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Nutella & Strawberries

A decadent combo best served on a cinnamon raisin or plain Western Bagel.

Sweet Cream Cheese + Toppings

Try a strawberry cream cheese with strawberry slices or blueberries, with a dusting of powdered sugar.

Go Wild: Unexpected but Delicious Combos

Time to experiment. These pairings may surprise you:

Sriracha + Cream Cheese

A spicy kick over smooth cream cheese makes for a bold flavor punch.

Brie + Fig Jam

Elegant and rich. Best on a toasted sesame Western Bagel.

Pickles + Tuna + Mustard

It sounds odd… until you try it. Crunch, salt, tang, and protein all in one bite.

Bagel Pairing Pro Tips

  • Choose your base wisely: A sesame bagel works well with savory toppings, while a cinnamon raisin suits sweet ones.
  • Balance flavors: Creamy + crunchy, sweet + salty — contrast keeps things interesting.
  • Toast to taste: Lightly toasted for softness, well-done for crunch.

 

Bagel toppings are a world of their own — delicious, customizable, and endlessly creative. Whether you’re into smoked salmon sophistication or sweet indulgent spreads, there’s a topping combo that matches your vibe (and your appetite).

So next time you’re staring at a plain Western Bagel or visiting one of our locations, ask yourself: How can I turn this into a masterpiece?

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