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The 14 Most Popular Bagel Toppings to Eat

Bagels, those delightful round breads with a distinctive chewy texture and a shiny crust, have become a beloved staple in many parts of the world, especially in the UK. Their versatility makes them perfect for breakfast, lunch, or even a late-night snack. While a plain bagel is delightful in its own right, the toppings are what elevate the bagel experience. Here, we explore the 14 most popular bagel toppings that you simply must try.

1. Cream Cheese

A classic choice, cream cheese is a must-have topping for bagels. Available in various flavours such as chive, smoked salmon, and wild garlic, cream cheese spreads effortlessly over the warm, toasted bagel, creating a creamy contrast to the chewy bread.

2. Smoked Salmon

Often paired with cream cheese, smoked salmon is a luxurious topping that adds a touch of sophistication to any bagel. The rich, smoky flavour complements the creaminess perfectly, making it a favourite for brunches and special occasions.

3. Avocado

Avocado has taken the culinary world by storm, and bagels are no exception. Smashed or sliced, avocado provides a creamy texture and creamy richness, often enhanced with a sprinkle of salt, pepper, chilli flakes, or a drizzle of olive oil for an extra zing.

4. Bacon

A beloved breakfast ingredient, crispy bacon adds a salty crunch to bagels. Whether on a bagel with egg or simply by itself, bacon lovers will appreciate the satisfying combination of savoury flavours.

5. Hummus

For a vegetarian option, hummus is a fantastic choice. This creamy dip made from chickpeas can be spread thickly on a bagel and topped with vegetables, herbs, or even nuts, making it a healthy and delicious alternative.

6. Egg and Cress

A traditional choice, egg and cress is a quintessentially British bagel topping. Soft-boiled or scrambled eggs, topped with fresh cress, create a protein-packed meal that’s light yet fulfilling.

7. Nutella

For those with a sweet tooth, Nutella transforms a plain bagel into a decadent treat. Spread generously, this chocolate-hazelnut spread pairs beautifully with additional toppings like banana slices or strawberries.

8. Peanut Butter and Banana

Another sweet option, peanut butter on a bagel offers a rich, nutty flavour that pairs beautifully with slices of banana. It’s a delightful combination that is not only delicious but also packed with energy.

9. Feta Cheese and Olives

For a Mediterranean twist, crumbled feta cheese and olives bring a burst of flavour to any bagel. You can add a sprinkle of herbs like oregano or basil, making this topping both refreshing and satisfying.

10. Tomato and Mozzarella

This Italian-inspired topping combines slices of fresh tomato and mozzarella cheese, often drizzled with balsamic glaze. It’s a fresh and vibrant choice that perfectly complements the bagel’s chewy texture.

11. Pesto

For a burst of flavour, a layer of pesto can be a game-changer. This basil-based sauce adds an aromatic and slightly nutty flavour that pairs well with both cream cheese and mozzarella.

12. Sriracha and Cream Cheese

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding Sriracha sauce to cream cheese creates a spicy topping that livens up any bagel. The balance of cool creaminess with a spicy kick is a match made in heaven.

13. Pickles

For a crunch factor, pickles can add a delightful tang to bagels. Whether you prefer dill, bread and butter, or even gherkins, pickles are perfect for adding extra flavour to meat-laden bagels.

14. Honey and Ricotta

For a sweet yet sophisticated option, a dollop of ricotta cheese topped with honey creates a creamy and sweet topping that works beautifully on a toasted bagel. This delightful combination is perfect for an indulgent breakfast or brunch.

Conclusion

Bagels are not just a blank canvas – they’re an opportunity for culinary creativity. With these 14 popular toppings, you can customise your bagel to suit any mood, meal, or occasion. Whether you prefer sweet, savoury, or something in between, there’s a bagel combination out there waiting to tempt your palate. So next time you enjoy a bagel, consider exploring these delicious topping options for a truly satisfying experience!