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Fresh Ultimate Bagel Bar Recipe with 5 Creamy Spreads for Easy Brunch

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A delicious and easy-to-assemble bagel bar featuring five creamy spreads, perfect for brunch, family gatherings, or casual celebrations.

Ingredients

Scale
  • Assorted fresh bagels (plain, everything, sesame, cinnamon raisin)
  • 16 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 tbsp chopped dill
  • 2 tbsp chopped chives
  • 2 tbsp chopped parsley
  • 4 oz smoked salmon, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp capers, rinsed and chopped
  • 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 ripe avocado, mashed
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional extras: sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, radishes, fresh sprouts

Instructions

  1. Slice bagels in half and toast lightly until golden and crisp on the edges. Set aside on serving platter.
  2. Make Classic Herb Cream Cheese Spread: Combine 8 oz softened cream cheese, ½ cup Greek yogurt, 1 tbsp each chopped dill, chives, parsley, ½ tsp sea salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper. Mix until smooth and fluffy. Refrigerate.
  3. Prepare Smoked Salmon Spread: Mix 8 oz softened cream cheese with 4 oz chopped smoked salmon, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp chopped capers, 1 minced garlic clove, and a pinch of black pepper. Blend until creamy but slightly chunky. Chill until serving.
  4. Make Honey & Herb Spread: Stir together 4 oz cream cheese, 2 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt.
  5. Prepare Avocado Spread: Mash 1 ripe avocado with 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste. Fold in ¼ cup Greek yogurt for extra creaminess. Chill until serving.
  6. Arrange toasted bagels on a large platter or board. Place each spread in individual bowls with spreaders. Add bowls or plates of sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, radishes, capers, and fresh sprouts for toppings.
  7. Garnish each spread with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil. Keep everything chilled until guests arrive.

Notes

Toast bagels last to keep them warm and crisp. Use softened cream cheese for smooth spreads. Prepare spreads ahead and chill overnight for best flavor. Provide plenty of spreaders to avoid cross-contamination. For vegan or gluten-free versions, use appropriate substitutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: bagel bar, creamy spreads, brunch recipe, easy brunch, smoked salmon spread, avocado spread, herb cream cheese, honey herb spread, family gathering, potluck