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Bagel Bar

Bagel Bar

Linda M. Harris
A bagel bar is a fun, customizable spread where guests can create their own perfect bagel combinations.
Featuring a selection of bagels, spreads, toppings, and proteins, this recipe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any gathering.
The variety of ingredients ensures there’s something for everyone, from classic options to dietary-friendly choices like gluten-free or vegan.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Breakfast, brunch, Snack
Cuisine American, Vegan, Vegetarian
Servings 15 Servings
Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Large Serving Platter (for bagels)
  • 5-8 Small Bowls (for spreads and toppings)
  • 1-2 Serving Spoons (for spreads)
  • Tongs or Small Slices Knife (for serving bagels)
  • Label Cards (for identifying spreads and toppings)
  • 1 Large Cutting Board (for slicing veggies and bagels)
  • 1 Large Cutting Board (for slicing veggies and bagels)
  • Knives (for slicing toppings and bagels)
  • Serving Plates (12-15)

Ingredients
  

Bagels

  • 12-15 bagels plain, sesame, everything, whole wheat, etc.

Spreads

  • 1 cup cream cheese regular or flavored
  • 1/2 cup butter unsalted
  • 1/2 cup hummus optional for vegan-friendly option
  • 1/2 cup fruit preserves/jams such as strawberry or apricot
  • 1/4 cup peanut butter or almond butter optional

Toppings

  • 1 cup sliced tomatoes 1-2 medium tomatoes
  • 1 cup cucumber slices 1 cucumber
  • 1/2 cup red onion slices 1 small red onion
  • 1 cup leafy greens arugula or spinach
  • 8 oz smoked salmon optional for non-vegetarian option
  • 1/2 cup sliced deli meats optional for non-vegetarian option
  • 1/2 cup sliced cheese cheddar, Swiss, or goat cheese
  • 1/4 cup capers optional
  • 1/4 cup fresh herbs such as dill or chives

Extras

  • 1 cup olives or pickles optional

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the bagels: Slice the bagels in half and arrange them on a large serving platter.
    Optionally, toast them lightly or keep them fresh.
  • Prepare the spreads: Portion the cream cheese, butter, hummus, jams, and nut butters into small bowls.
    Label each bowl clearly with a sign or card.
  • Prepare the toppings: Slice the tomatoes, cucumber, and red onions.
    Arrange them in separate bowls for easy access. Prepare any additional toppings such as leafy greens, smoked salmon, deli meats, cheese, capers, or herbs and place them in small serving dishes.
  • Set up your bagel bar: Arrange the bagels in the center of the table.
    Place the spreads and toppings around them, ensuring there’s enough variety for your guests.
  • Enjoy!: Encourage guests to customize their bagels by spreading, topping, and combining ingredients to their liking.

Notes

  • For a vegan-friendly option, use dairy-free cream cheese, hummus, and avocado.
  • If you’re catering to gluten-free guests, be sure to provide gluten-free bagels and check that all toppings and spreads are also gluten-free.
  • To add more variety, consider adding eggs (scrambled or hard-boiled) and bacon or sausage for non-vegetarians.
  • If you want to make the bagel bar a bit more interactive, create suggested bagel combinations with fun names to inspire your guests.
  • Leftover bagels can be frozen and toasted for later use.
Keyword Bagel Bar