There’s something magical about a perfectly toasted bagel with cream cheese or hummus—it’s my go-to breakfast when I’m rushing out the door but still want something satisfying. I swear, half my college mornings were saved by this combo! Whether you’re team cream cheese (hello, nostalgia!) or prefer the savory kick of hummus, this simple meal is endlessly customizable. My secret? Always grab a fresh bagel—the chewy texture makes all the difference. Trust me, once you nail this basic, you’ll never look at quick breakfasts the same way again.

Why You’ll Love This Bagel with Cream Cheese or Hummus
This bagel combo is my breakfast MVP for so many reasons:
- Lightning fast – Ready in under 5 minutes, even with toasting!
- Totally customizable – Sweet or savory, it’s your call every time
- Surprisingly filling – The protein keeps me going till lunch
- Fresh-bagel magic – That perfect chew makes ordinary mornings special
Seriously, it’s the little things that make this simple meal so darn lovable.

Ingredients for Bagel with Cream Cheese or Hummus
Here’s all you need for this ridiculously easy breakfast (or snack!):
- 1 fresh bagel – Plain, whole wheat, or whatever makes you happy (just please, not stale!)
- 2 tbsp cream cheese – Softened slightly if straight from the fridge, or…
- 2 tbsp hummus – Any flavor you’re craving today
That’s it! Though I won’t judge if you sneak some extra toppings in there…
How to Make a Bagel with Cream Cheese or Hummus
Okay, let me walk you through my foolproof method—it’s so easy you’ll have it memorized after one try! First, grab that fresh bagel (I can’t stress “fresh” enough) and slice it horizontally. A serrated knife works best here—just saw gently so you don’t squish it. Now, pop those halves in the toaster if you like a little crunch (about 2-3 minutes on medium does the trick for me). While that’s happening, let your cream cheese or hummus sit out to soften slightly—it spreads like a dream this way. Once toasted, slather each half generously with your spread of choice. And boom—breakfast is served! No fancy techniques, just pure, delicious efficiency.

Tips for the Perfect Bagel with Cream Cheese or Hummus
After years of bagel obsession (and yes, I admit it’s a problem), here are my golden rules:
- Toast it right – Medium setting gives that perfect crisp outside/chewy inside combo
- Fresh is non-negotiable – Day-old bagels should be bread pudding, not breakfast
- Get creative with spreads – Everything bagel cream cheese or roasted red pepper hummus? Yes please!
- Spread while warm – The heat helps melts the cream cheese slightly – heavenly!
Follow these, and you’ll never have a sad bagel again.
Variations for Your Bagel with Cream Cheese or Hummus
Oh, the possibilities! Here’s where my bagel adventures get really fun:
- Everything but the kitchen sink – Sprinkle on that addictive everything bagel seasoning for instant crunch
- Avocado lover’s dream – Add sliced avocado and red pepper flakes for creamy heat
- Fancy brunch vibes – Top cream cheese with smoked salmon and capers (my weekend treat!)
- Veggie-packed – Pile on roasted red peppers, cucumbers, or sprouts for freshness
Mix and match—that’s half the joy of this simple meal!
Serving Suggestions for Bagel with Cream Cheese or Hummus
My perfect morning? This bagel with a steaming mug of coffee—the bitterness cuts through the richness beautifully. For something lighter, pair it with fresh berries or a simple side salad. Weekend bonus: add a mimosa for brunch vibes!

Storage and Reheating
Leftovers? Wrap your bagel halves tightly in foil or plastic—they’ll keep in the fridge for 1-2 days. To revive them, pop them straight in the toaster (no thawing needed!) until warm and crispy again. Easy peasy!
Nutritional Information for Bagel with Cream Cheese or Hummus
Here’s the basic breakdown for one plain bagel with 2 tbsp of regular cream cheese (but remember – brands vary!):
- 250 calories – Perfect fuel to start your day
- 8g fat – Mostly from the creamy goodness
- 35g carbs – That delicious chew comes from somewhere!
- 9g protein – More satisfying than you’d think
Using hummus? You’ll get similar numbers with extra fiber. Pro tip: Whole wheat bagels bump up the nutrition even more!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What’s the best bagel type for this?
Freshness matters most! I love plain or everything bagels for their neutral base, but whole wheat adds extra nutrition. Just avoid super-seeded varieties—they can overwhelm the spreads.
Q2. Any vegan swaps for cream cheese?
Absolutely! Try dairy-free cream cheese or stick with hummus (most are vegan). For extra creaminess, mash avocado with lemon juice—it’s my favorite plant-based hack.
Q3. Toasting tips?
Medium setting for 2-3 minutes gives perfect texture. No toaster? Use a dry skillet over medium heat—flip halfway until golden. Watch closely—they burn fast!
Q4. Can I prep these ahead?
Slice and toast the bagel, but wait to spread until serving to prevent sogginess. The spreads themselves keep for days in the fridge though!
Share Your Bagel with Cream Cheese or Hummus
I’d love to see your bagel masterpieces! Tag me in your creations or leave a comment below—what’s your favorite spread or topping combo? Every bagel tells a story, and I’m here for all of them!
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5-Minute Bagel with Cream Cheese or Hummus – Effortless Bliss
A simple and delicious bagel topped with your choice of cream cheese or hummus.
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
Ingredients
- 1 bagel (plain, whole wheat, or your preferred type)
- 2 tbsp cream cheese or hummus
Instructions
- Slice the bagel in half horizontally.
- Toast the bagel halves if desired.
- Spread cream cheese or hummus evenly on each half.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use fresh bagels for the best texture.
- Experiment with flavored cream cheese or hummus for variety.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes (if toasting)
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: No-Cook/Toasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bagel with topping
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 10mg