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The best things to put on a blueberry bagel besides cream cheese are savory options like smoked salmon and avocado, sweet spreads like fruit preserves and honey, or even hearty additions like nut butter and eggs.
Cream cheese is the classic go-to for a blueberry bagel, but it’s certainly not your only option.
If you’re looking to shake up your breakfast routine or simply ran out of cream cheese, there’s a whole world of delicious toppings waiting for you.
The naturally sweet and slightly tart flavor of the blueberries pairs beautifully with a surprising range of ingredients, from rich and creamy to salty and savory.
In this post, we’ll explore a variety of creative and tasty alternatives so you can answer the question of what to put on a blueberry bagel besides cream cheese with confidence.
Let’s dive into these delicious bagel topping ideas.
Why You Should Try Something Besides Cream Cheese on a Blueberry Bagel
There are plenty of reasons to explore other options for your blueberry bagel, and the payoff is a whole new flavor experience.
First, the blueberry bagel itself is versatile enough to handle both sweet and savory pairings.
The subtle sweetness from the blueberries doesn’t overpower other flavors, so it acts as a great base for bold toppings.
Second, you might be looking for healthier alternatives that offer more protein or healthy fats than traditional cream cheese.
Finally, experimenting with different textures and tastes can make your morning meal exciting again, and you’ll never get bored.
Let’s look at some fantastic ideas for what to put on a blueberry bagel besides cream cheese that will completely change how you enjoy them.
1. Smoked Salmon and Capers
A classic lox and bagel combination takes on a new twist when paired with a blueberry bagel, and this is a top choice for savory fans.
The salty, smoky flavor of the salmon contrasts beautifully with the sweet blueberry notes in the dough.
Add some thinly sliced red onion, a few briny capers, and maybe a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
This is a sophisticated and filling option that feels gourmet while being super simple to assemble, and it answers the question of what to put on a blueberry bagel besides cream cheese in a big way.
2. Mashed Avocado and Everything Seasoning
If you want a creamy texture without the cream cheese, mashed avocado is a fantastic alternative.
The rich, buttery flavor of a ripe avocado is a perfect match for the fruity sweetness of the bagel.
Smash a ripe avocado onto your toasted blueberry bagel and finish it with a generous sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning.
The savory sesame seeds, garlic, and onion in the seasoning cut through the sweetness, creating an incredible balance of flavors.
You’ll have a satisfying, nutrient-dense breakfast that’s full of healthy fats and fiber, and you’ll never miss the cream cheese.
3. Peanut Butter and Banana
For a sweet and protein-packed breakfast, this is one of the best things to put on a blueberry bagel besides cream cheese.
Spread a generous layer of creamy or crunchy peanut butter on your warm bagel.
Then top it with slices of fresh banana, and if you’re feeling indulgent, a drizzle of honey or a handful of granola.
This combination gives you the ultimate energy boost to start your day, and the flavors meld together perfectly.
Sweet Toppings to Elevate Your Blueberry Bagel
If you have a sweet tooth, there are endless ways to sweeten your blueberry bagel while skipping the standard cream cheese spread.
These options are perfect for dessert-like breakfasts or a delightful afternoon snack, and they showcase even more ideas for what to put on a blueberry bagel besides cream cheese.
1. Lemon Curd and Fresh Berries
The pairing of blueberry and lemon is a match made in heaven, and this topping is the perfect example.
Spread a generous amount of tangy lemon curd over your toasted bagel.
The bright, citrusy flavor cuts through the sweet dough, and then you can add a handful of fresh blueberries or sliced strawberries on top.
This is a bright, refreshing, and visually beautiful option that feels like a special treat.
2. Honey or Maple Syrup with Ricotta
For a simple yet elegant choice, mix some creamy ricotta cheese with a drizzle of honey or pure maple syrup.
The mild, creamy flavor of the ricotta is a fantastic canvas for the sweet syrup and the blueberry bagel itself.
You can spread the sweetened ricotta directly on the bagel, and it provides a smooth and velvety texture that’s totally satisfying.
Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth, and you’ve got a comforting classic.
3. Fruit Preserves and Almond Butter
This is a straightforward and delicious twist that combines two spreads for a layered flavor experience.
Start with a base of almond butter or cashew butter, then add a dollop of your favorite fruit preserves like raspberry, strawberry, or more blueberry.
The nutty richness of the butter combined with the sweet, chunky fruit preserve is irresistible on a blueberry bagel, making it one of the easiest answers to what to put on a blueberry bagel besides cream cheese.
Savory and Hearty Options for a Filling Meal
For those who prefer a more substantial and savory breakfast, these ideas are sure to hit the spot.
They turn your blueberry bagel into a full meal, and they prove there are many savory options for what to put on a blueberry bagel besides cream cheese.
1. Egg, Cheese, and Arugula Sandwich
Turn your blueberry bagel into a satisfying breakfast sandwich, and the sweet dough is a wonderful surprise against savory fillings.
Toast your bagel and layer it with a fried or scrambled egg, a slice of your favorite melting cheese like cheddar or Swiss, and a handful of fresh arugula.
The peppery arugula adds a nice bite, and the melting cheese brings everything together perfectly.
It’s a hearty, protein-rich way to start your day, and you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner.
2. Hummus and Roasted Vegetables
For a vegan-friendly and incredibly tasty option, this combination is a winner.
Spread a thick layer of plain or roasted red pepper hummus on your toasted blueberry bagel.
Top it with your favorite roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or red onions.
The creamy hummus and savory roasted veggies pair surprisingly well with the sweet bagel, creating a delicious and healthy lunch or breakfast.
3. Pesto, Tomato, and Mozzarella
This combination is a fresh take that brings Italian flavors to your morning routine.
Spread a layer of basil pesto on your bagel, then add slices of fresh tomato and creamy mozzarella.
Finish it off with a sprinkle of black pepper and maybe a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
The herby pesto complements the blueberries, and the fresh ingredients make it light and delicious for warmer months, showing another unique twist on what to put on a blueberry bagel besides cream cheese.
So, What Do You Put on a Blueberry Bagel Besides Cream Cheese?
There are countless delicious things to put on a blueberry bagel besides cream cheese, and you have many fantastic options to choose from.
You can put savory toppings like smoked salmon and avocado or sweet options like lemon curd and peanut butter on your blueberry bagel.
You can also put hearty ingredients like eggs and hummus with vegetables on a blueberry bagel for a complete meal.
The key is to have fun and experiment with flavors you love, and the versatility of the blueberry bagel makes it a perfect vehicle for so many combinations.
So the next time you’re wondering what to put on a blueberry bagel besides cream cheese, just pick one of these ideas and enjoy a whole new world of bagel toppings.