📝 About This Recipe
Transform the humble bagel into a whimsical 'breakfast for dinner' feast that kids will absolutely adore. These bite-sized delights feature perfectly toasted mini bagels topped with a cloud-like whipped cream cheese and vibrant, fresh toppings that balance creamy, crunchy, and sweet textures. It is the ultimate customizable meal that brings the cozy comfort of a weekend morning to any busy weeknight table.
🥗 Ingredients
The Bagel Base
- 8 pieces Mini Bagels (plain, sesame, or whole wheat; sliced in half)
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (softened for light spreading)
The Creamy Spread
- 8 ounces Full-fat Cream Cheese (at room temperature for easy whipping)
- 2 tablespoons Heavy Cream (to lighten the texture)
- 1 teaspoon Honey or Maple Syrup (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
- 1/4 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (pure extract for aroma)
Fresh Toppings & Garnishes
- 1/2 cup Fresh Strawberries (thinly sliced)
- 1/4 cup Blueberries (rinsed and dried)
- 1/2 English Cucumber (thinly sliced into rounds for a savory option)
- 1 teaspoon Chia Seeds (for a nutritional crunch)
- 1 teaspoon Cinnamon Sugar (for dusting)
- 4-5 leaves Fresh Mint Leaves (finely chiffonaded for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
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1
Begin by removing the cream cheese from the refrigerator at least 30 minutes prior to starting to ensure it is soft and easy to blend.
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2
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, heavy cream, honey, and vanilla extract.
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3
Using a hand mixer or a whisk, beat the cream cheese mixture on medium-high speed for 2-3 minutes until it becomes light, airy, and double in volume.
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4
Transfer the whipped cream cheese to a small serving bowl or a piping bag fitted with a large star tip for a decorative look.
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5
Slice your mini bagels in half horizontally if they aren't pre-sliced. Ensure the cut is even to prevent burning in the toaster.
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6
Lightly spread a very thin layer of softened butter onto the cut side of each bagel half; this creates a golden, crisp barrier.
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7
Place the bagels in a toaster oven or on a baking sheet under a broiler set to low for 2-3 minutes until the edges are golden brown.
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8
While the bagels toast, wash and slice your strawberries, cucumbers, and any other fruit you've selected.
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9
Remove the bagels from the heat and let them cool for just 60 seconds—this prevents the cream cheese from melting instantly into the bread.
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10
Generously spread or pipe about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of the whipped cream cheese onto each toasted bagel half.
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11
For the 'Sweet Berry' version, top with strawberry slices and blueberries, then sprinkle with a tiny pinch of cinnamon sugar.
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12
For the 'Cool Crunch' version, top with thin cucumber slices and a dusting of chia seeds.
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13
Arrange the finished bagels on a large colorful platter, alternating colors and textures to make them visually appealing for children.
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14
Garnish the sweet bagels with a tiny bit of fresh mint for a professional chef's touch.
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15
Serve immediately while the bagels are still warm and the cream cheese is cool and fluffy.
💡 Chef's Tips
Always use room temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps in your whipped spread. If using a toaster oven, keep a close eye on the mini bagels as they burn much faster than standard-sized bagels. To make this dairy-free, substitute with a cashew-based cream cheese and coconut cream. For extra protein, you can stir a teaspoon of almond butter into the cream cheese mixture. Store any leftover whipped cream cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; just re-whip it briefly before the next use.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Pair with a small glass of fresh-squeezed orange juice or a cold milk of your choice. Serve alongside a side of crispy turkey bacon or breakfast sausage links for a balanced dinner. Add a small bowl of Greek yogurt topped with granola for extra dipping fun. For a cozy evening vibe, serve with a warm mug of caffeine-free fruit tea. Include a handful of baby carrots or snap peas on the side to round out the meal with veggies.