If you’re in the mood for a fast yet absolutely unforgettable breakfast, Cinnamon Raisin Bagels with Cream Cheese is your new go-to treat. The warm aroma of cinnamon drifting from the toaster, little plump raisins nestled into pillowy dough, and a swirl of cool, tangy cream cheese on top is just pure breakfast joy. This classic combination is pure comfort, perfect for when you want something nostalgic yet genuinely satisfying. Not only is it astonishingly simple to make, but every bite hits the sweet-spot between chewy, creamy, and just a hint of spice. If you ask me, mornings don’t get much better than this.

Cinnamon Raisin Bagels with Cream Cheese Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best part about Cinnamon Raisin Bagels with Cream Cheese is how short and approachable the ingredient list is. Each staple here brings its own magic—flavor, backbone, or a little something special—to the final result. Gather these just-right essentials, and breakfast bliss is only minutes away.

Cinnamon Raisin Bagels: These are the star of the show, offering that signature cinnamon warmth and pockets of juicy raisins in every bite.
Cream Cheese (softened): The creamy layer adds richness and a tangy contrast that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the bagels.
Ground Cinnamon (optional): A light sprinkle elevates the scent and flavor, making the bagels taste bakery-fresh.
Honey (optional): Just a drizzle brings extra sweetness and a glossy finish for a breakfast that feels decadent.

How to Make Cinnamon Raisin Bagels with Cream Cheese

Step 1: Slice the Bagels

Start by grabbing those irresistible cinnamon raisin bagels and slice each one in half horizontally with a serrated bread knife. Cutting them evenly ensures perfect toasting and the ideal surface for spreading the cream cheese later.

Step 2: Toast the Bagels

Pop the sliced bagels into your toaster or toaster oven. Toast them to your desired level of crispiness—lightly browned for a soft bite or golden and crunchy for that satisfying crunch. The toasting brings out the cinnamon aroma and makes the raisins even sweeter.

Step 3: Spread on the Cream Cheese

Once toasted, immediately slather each warm bagel half with 2 tablespoons of softened cream cheese. The heat helps the cream cheese glide on smoothly, melting just a bit and soaking into the crevices for maximum flavor with every bite.

Step 4: Add Final Touches

If you’re feeling a little extra, now’s the time to sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon on top, or drizzle over a little honey for more sweetness. This optional flourish brings depth and a gorgeous finishing touch to your Cinnamon Raisin Bagels with Cream Cheese.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the bagels warm, ideally straight after preparing. The contrast between the crispy edges, soft centers, cool cream cheese, and those fragrant sweet toppings is absolutely irresistible.

How to Serve Cinnamon Raisin Bagels with Cream Cheese

Garnishes

A classic garnish for Cinnamon Raisin Bagels with Cream Cheese is a pinch of ground cinnamon dusted over the cream cheese, but you might also try thin slices of fresh fruit like strawberries or apples for a pop of color and flavor. A gentle drizzle of honey or a handful of toasted chopped walnuts can really take it over the top.

Side Dishes

These bagels are perfectly satisfying on their own, but if you want a heartier breakfast, pair them with a bowl of Greek yogurt and fresh berries, a glass of orange juice, or even a handful of roasted nuts for added crunch and balance. They’re also wonderful beside a fluffy omelet or warm scrambled eggs for a supercharged breakfast spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For an extra-special touch, halve the assembled bagels and arrange them on a brunch board with bowls of different flavored cream cheeses—think honey walnut, vanilla, or even maple. Mini bagel “sliders” topped with slivers of fresh fruit or candied nuts make an adorable brunch appetizer. Cinnamon Raisin Bagels with Cream Cheese also work well as the centerpiece of a breakfast-themed picnic!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftover Cinnamon Raisin Bagels with Cream Cheese, store the bagels and cream cheese separately for the best texture. Tightly wrap sliced bagels in plastic wrap or slide them into an airtight bag, and keep your cream cheese covered in the refrigerator. This way they’ll both stay fresh for up to three days.

Freezing

To freeze, slice the bagels beforehand and wrap each half individually in plastic wrap, then stash them in a zip-top freezer bag. Bagels can be frozen for up to two months and popped straight into the toaster from frozen for quick mornings. Store cream cheese in a separate airtight container in the fridge; it doesn’t freeze well but keeps for weeks when sealed tight.

Reheating

When ready to enjoy, simply toast your frozen or refrigerated bagel halves until warm and crisp. Then spread the cream cheese on top, and finish with any garnish if you like. They’ll taste just as delicious as when freshly made!

FAQs

Can I use different types of bagels for this recipe?

Absolutely! While the classic flavor combo is hard to beat, you can swap in plain, whole wheat, or even blueberry bagels for a fun twist on Cinnamon Raisin Bagels with Cream Cheese. Each variety will offer a slightly different taste and texture experience.

What’s the best way to soften cream cheese quickly?

If your cream cheese is too firm, you can soften it by leaving it at room temperature for about 30 minutes. In a hurry? Place the cream cheese (still in its wrapper) in a bowl of warm water for about 10 minutes, or microwave it in short bursts (no more than 10 seconds at a time).

Is this recipe suitable for a vegan or dairy-free diet?

Yes! Simply swap in your favorite plant-based or dairy-free cream cheese. Many stores carry options that taste creamy and spread just as easily, which means everyone can enjoy Cinnamon Raisin Bagels with Cream Cheese regardless of dietary preferences.

Can I add extra mix-ins to this recipe?

Definitely! Feel free to get creative: try mixing a touch of maple syrup, chopped nuts, or extra cinnamon directly into your cream cheese. Or, top with dried fruit or seeds for added flavor and crunch.

How do I keep bagels from getting soggy after toasting?

To avoid soggy bagels, make sure to eat them right after toasting and spreading with cream cheese. If prepping for a group, toast right before serving, and avoid stacking or covering the hot bagels, which traps steam and softens the crust.

Final Thoughts

Every time I whip up Cinnamon Raisin Bagels with Cream Cheese, I’m reminded just how satisfying simple pleasures can be. Whether it’s a weekday breakfast or a cozy weekend treat, this recipe always delivers pure comfort with hardly any effort at all. I hope you’ll try it out and make it your own—it’s just the kind of recipe that becomes a forever favorite!

Cinnamon Raisin Bagels with Cream Cheese Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 21 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 8 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the perfect breakfast treat with these delicious cinnamon raisin bagels topped with creamy cream cheese. Quick to make and bursting with flavor, these bagels are sure to become a morning favorite!

Ingredients

Scale

Cinnamon Raisin Bagels:

4 cinnamon raisin bagels

Cream Cheese Topping:

8 tablespoons cream cheese (softened)
Optional: ground cinnamon and honey for topping

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Slice and Toast: Slice the cinnamon raisin bagels in half horizontally. Toast the bagels to your desired level of crispiness.
Spread Cream Cheese: Spread 2 tablespoons of cream cheese evenly over each toasted bagel half.
Add Toppings: If desired, sprinkle lightly with ground cinnamon or drizzle with honey for added flavor.
Serve: Serve warm and enjoy immediately.