Ingredients
Scale
- 6 plain bagels, sliced in half
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: fresh berries or a drizzle of maple syrup for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking. Slice all your bagels in half horizontally. Lay the bagel halves cut-side up on the prepared sheet pan, ensuring they are in a single layer and not overlapping.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the vanilla extract and one tablespoon of the sugar. Use a whisk or a fork to blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. In a separate small bowl, mix the remaining sugar with the ground cinnamon until evenly distributed.
- Brush the cut side of each bagel lightly with the melted butter. This helps the bagel crisp up and adds a rich flavor. Spread a generous tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture over each bagel half, going all the way to the edges. Finally, sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the top of the cream cheese layer.
- Place the sheet pan in the center rack of the oven. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes. You are looking for the cream cheese to be warm and slightly puffed, and the cinnamon-sugar to create a light, glistening crust. Be careful not to let the bottom of the bagels burn; they should be golden and toasted.
- Remove the pan from the oven and let the bagels cool for about two minutes. This allows the cream cheese to set slightly so it doesn’t slide off. Serve them warm as they are, or top them with fresh fruit for an extra burst of flavor. These are best enjoyed immediately while the crust is still crunchy.
- Cook Time: 22 minutes