Bagels are a breakfast favorite for many people. They’re tasty on their own, but adding toppings can make them even better.

There are lots of options to choose from when it comes to bagel toppings. From sweet to savory, there’s something for everyone.

Trying new toppings can be a fun way to mix up your usual bagel routine. Whether you like classic flavors or want to try something different, this list has ideas for you.

1. Cream Cheese and Smoked Salmon

Cream cheese and smoked salmon make a classic bagel topping combo. Start by spreading a layer of cream cheese on your toasted bagel.

Add thin slices of smoked salmon on top. For extra flavor, sprinkle some capers and diced red onion.

A few sprigs of fresh dill can add a nice touch. Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up the flavors.

This topping works great on plain, sesame, or everything bagels. It’s a tasty choice for breakfast or lunch.

2. Avocado and Sun-dried Tomatoes

Avocado and sun-dried tomatoes make a tasty bagel topping combo. Start by mashing ripe avocado onto your toasted bagel. Spread it evenly for a creamy base.

Next, chop some sun-dried tomatoes and sprinkle them on top. They add a tangy, chewy texture that pairs well with the smooth avocado.

For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of salt and pepper. You can also drizzle a bit of olive oil over everything. This enhances the Mediterranean taste of the sun-dried tomatoes.

This topping works great on any type of bagel. It’s a quick and easy way to enjoy a flavorful, plant-based meal or snack.

3. Honey Walnut Spread

Honey walnut spread is a tasty topping for your bagel. It combines cream cheese, honey, and chopped walnuts for a sweet and nutty flavor.

You can make this spread at home easily. Mix softened cream cheese with honey and a dash of cinnamon. Then fold in some toasted walnuts.

This spread works well on plain, whole wheat, or cinnamon raisin bagels. It adds a nice crunch and sweetness to your breakfast or snack.

You can find honey walnut cream cheese at some bakeries and cafes. But making it yourself lets you control the sweetness and amount of nuts.

4. Tomato, Mozzarella, and Basil

This classic combo brings Italian flavors to your bagel. Start with a toasted bagel and spread a thin layer of pesto on each half.

Add slices of fresh mozzarella cheese. Top with ripe tomato slices or roasted cherry tomatoes for extra sweetness. Finish with fresh basil leaves.

For a twist, try using sun-dried tomatoes instead of fresh ones. You can also add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra tang.

This topping works great on plain, whole wheat, or everything bagels. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or tasty breakfast.

5. Hummus and Cucumber

Hummus and cucumber make a tasty and healthy bagel topping. Spread a layer of creamy hummus on your toasted bagel. Slice cucumbers thinly and place them on top of the hummus.

This combo gives you a mix of protein from the chickpeas in hummus and refreshing crunch from the cucumber.

You can use plain hummus or try flavored varieties like roasted red pepper or garlic.

For extra flavor, sprinkle some black pepper or add a dash of lemon juice. You can also include other veggies like sliced radishes or sprouts to boost the nutrients and texture.

6. Peanut Butter and Banana

Peanut butter and banana make a tasty pair on your bagel. Spread creamy peanut butter on a toasted bagel half. Slice a ripe banana and place the pieces on top.

This combo gives you protein from the peanut butter and potassium from the banana. It’s filling and energizing for breakfast or a snack.

For extra flavor, try adding a drizzle of honey. You can also use crunchy peanut butter if you like more texture. Almond butter works well too if you want to change things up.

7. Lox and Capers

Lox and capers make a tasty pair on your bagel. Lox is thin-sliced, cured salmon with a smooth texture and salty flavor. Capers are small, pickled flower buds that add a tangy kick.

To make this topping, start with a layer of cream cheese on your bagel. Add a few slices of lox on top. Sprinkle some capers over the salmon.

For extra flavor, try adding thin slices of red onion and fresh dill. This combo gives you a mix of creamy, salty, and zesty tastes in each bite. It’s a classic bagel topping that many people love.

8. Brie and Fig Jam

Brie and fig jam make a tasty bagel topping. Spread a layer of creamy brie cheese on your toasted bagel. Top it with a dollop of sweet fig jam.

The contrast between the soft cheese and fruity jam creates a delicious flavor combo. For extra texture, add some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans.

This topping works well on plain, whole wheat, or even cinnamon raisin bagels. It’s perfect for a fancy brunch or afternoon snack. You can find fig jam at most grocery stores near the other jams and jellies.

9. Egg Salad and Chives

Egg salad makes a tasty and filling bagel topping. Mix chopped hard-boiled eggs with mayo, mustard, salt, and pepper for a classic egg salad.

Spread a thick layer on your toasted bagel. Sprinkle freshly snipped chives on top for a mild onion flavor and pop of green color.

The creamy egg salad pairs well with the chewy texture of a bagel. For extra crunch, add some finely diced celery or pickles to your egg mixture.

This protein-packed topping will keep you full until lunch. It’s perfect for a quick breakfast or easy lunch option.

10. Garlic Herb Cream Cheese and Prosciutto

Garlic herb cream cheese and prosciutto make a tasty combo for your bagel. Start with a freshly toasted bagel of your choice.

Spread a generous layer of garlic herb cream cheese on both halves. The creamy texture and savory flavors will coat your taste buds.

Top with thin slices of prosciutto. This Italian dry-cured ham adds a salty, meaty element that pairs well with the cream cheese.

For extra flavor, you can add some fresh arugula or a drizzle of olive oil. The peppery greens or fruity oil enhance the overall taste.

11. Strawberry Jam and Almond Butter

Strawberry jam and almond butter make a tasty pair on your bagel. Spread almond butter on one half and strawberry jam on the other.

This combo gives you a mix of sweet and nutty flavors. The almond butter adds protein and healthy fats to your meal.

You can use store-bought jam and almond butter or make your own. Homemade strawberry chia jam is easy to make and healthier than many store options.

Try warming your bagel slightly before adding the toppings. This helps the almond butter melt a bit, making it easier to spread.

12. Buffalo Chicken Dip

Buffalo chicken dip is a tasty and zesty topping for your bagel. You can make it by mixing cream cheese, shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, and cheese.

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Combine softened cream cheese with buffalo sauce and ranch dressing. Stir in chopped chicken and shredded cheddar cheese.

Bake the mixture for about 20 minutes until it’s hot and bubbly. Let it cool slightly before spreading on your bagel.

This dip adds a spicy kick to your breakfast or lunch. You can adjust the heat level by using more or less buffalo sauce.

13. Bacon, Lettuce, and Tomato

The classic BLT makes a great bagel topping. Start with a toasted bagel of your choice. Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on both halves.

Add crispy bacon strips, fresh lettuce leaves, and ripe tomato slices. For extra flavor, try adding avocado or a fried egg.

You can also mix things up by using cream cheese instead of mayo. Some people like to chop the bacon and mix it with the cream cheese for easier spreading.

For a lighter option, use turkey bacon. Remember to season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.

14. Spinach and Artichoke Dip

Spinach and artichoke dip makes a tasty bagel topping. You can create this savory spread at home with a few simple ingredients.

Mix cream cheese, chopped spinach, artichoke hearts, and shredded cheese in a bowl. Add garlic and seasonings to taste. Spread this mixture on your bagel halves.

Place the topped bagels on a baking sheet. Sprinkle extra cheese on top for added flavor. Bake until the cheese melts and turns golden brown.

This warm, cheesy topping transforms plain bagels into a delicious meal or snack. The creamy texture and rich flavors will satisfy your cravings.

15. Cranberry Sauce and Turkey

Cranberry sauce and turkey make a tasty bagel topping. This combo brings holiday flavors to your breakfast or lunch.

Start with a toasted bagel. Spread cream cheese on both halves. Add sliced turkey breast on top.

Spoon cranberry sauce over the turkey. You can use homemade or store-bought sauce. For extra flavor, mix some orange zest into the cranberry sauce.

This topping works well on plain, whole wheat, or even everything bagels. It’s a great way to use up Thanksgiving leftovers too.

Try adding some fresh spinach leaves for a pop of green. You can also sprinkle on some chopped walnuts for crunch.

16. Pesto and Roasted Red Peppers

Pesto and roasted red peppers make a tasty combo for your bagel. Spread a layer of pesto on your toasted bagel half. Add sliced roasted red peppers on top.

This mix brings a nice blend of flavors. The pesto adds a fresh, herby taste. The roasted red peppers give a sweet, smoky touch.

You can buy jarred roasted red peppers or make your own. For extra flavor, try adding some fresh mozzarella or a sprinkle of pine nuts.

This topping works well on any type of bagel. It’s great for a quick lunch or snack.

17. Balsamic Glaze and Goat Cheese

Balsamic glaze and goat cheese make a tasty topping for your bagel. Spread creamy goat cheese on a toasted bagel for a tangy base.

Drizzle balsamic glaze over the cheese. The sweet and sour glaze pairs well with the goat cheese’s flavor.

You can buy premade balsamic glaze or make your own. To make it, simmer balsamic vinegar until it thickens.

Add some sliced tomatoes or fresh herbs like basil for extra flavor and color. This combo works great on plain, whole wheat, or everything bagels.

18. Cottage Cheese and Pineapple

Want a tasty bagel topping with a tropical twist? Try cottage cheese and pineapple. This combo gives you protein and a sweet, tangy flavor.

Spread a layer of cottage cheese on your bagel. Add sliced or diced fresh pineapple on top. The creamy cheese balances the fruit’s tartness nicely.

For extra flavor, sprinkle some shredded coconut over your bagel. A dash of cinnamon can add warmth to this tropical treat.

This topping works well on plain or whole wheat bagels. It’s a quick, nutritious option for breakfast or a snack.

19. Raspberry Jam and Clotted Cream

Raspberry jam and clotted cream make a delicious topping for your bagel. Spread a layer of sweet raspberry jam on your bagel first. Then add a dollop of rich clotted cream on top.

The tart raspberry flavor pairs perfectly with the thick, creamy texture of clotted cream. This combo gives you a taste of traditional British afternoon tea.

You can find raspberry jam at most grocery stores. Look for clotted cream in the dairy section or at specialty food shops. For the best flavor, choose high-quality ingredients.

This topping works great on plain, whole wheat, or even cinnamon raisin bagels. It’s a tasty choice for breakfast or an afternoon snack.

20. Roast Beef and Horseradish

Roast beef and horseradish make a tasty bagel topping. Spread a thin layer of horseradish sauce on your bagel. Add slices of tender roast beef on top.

For extra flavor, try adding some melted cheese. Cheddar, provolone, or Swiss work well. You can also include pickled onions for a tangy crunch.

To take it up a notch, sprinkle some everything bagel seasoning over the top. This adds a mix of onion, garlic, and nutty flavors that complement the beef and horseradish.

Nutritional Benefits of Bagel Toppings

Bagel toppings can add important nutrients to your breakfast or snack. The right choices boost your vitamin, mineral, protein, and fiber intake.

Vitamins and Minerals

Many bagel toppings pack a nutrient punch. Avocado gives you vitamin E and potassium. Tomatoes offer vitamin C and lycopene. Eggs add vitamin D, B12, and iron to your bagel.

Leafy greens like spinach or arugula provide folate and vitamin K. Salmon tops the list with omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin B12. Nut butters contain vitamin E and magnesium.

For a mineral boost, try sesame seeds. They’re rich in calcium, iron, and zinc.

Protein and Fiber

Protein and fiber make your bagel more filling.

Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, and hummus add protein without much fat. Smoked salmon or turkey slices bump up the protein too.

For fiber, load up on veggies.

Cucumber, bell peppers, and sprouts are low-calorie fiber sources. Chia seeds pack lots of fiber in a small amount.

Nut butters give you both protein and fiber. They also add healthy fats to keep you full longer.

Whole grain bagels themselves have more fiber than plain ones. Pair them with high-protein toppings for a balanced meal.

Pairing Bagel Toppings with Different Bagel Types

Choosing the right toppings for your bagel can make a big difference in taste and enjoyment. The type of bagel you pick affects which toppings work best.

Matching Flavors and Textures

Plain bagels go well with almost any topping. Try cream cheese, smoked salmon, or peanut butter and jelly.

Everything bagels have a strong flavor, so simple toppings like butter or plain cream cheese work nicely.

For sesame bagels, hummus and vegetables are a great match. The nutty flavor of the seeds pairs well with savory spreads.

Cinnamon raisin bagels taste best with sweet toppings like honey or fruit jams.

Onion or garlic bagels call for bold flavors. Try them with egg salad or tuna melts. The strong taste of these bagels stands up well to flavorful toppings.

Creating Balanced Meals

To make a filling breakfast, top your bagel with protein-rich options.

Eggs, cheese, and smoked salmon are good choices. Add some veggies like tomato or cucumber for extra nutrition.

For lunch, try turning your bagel into a sandwich.

Use deli meats, lettuce, and tomato for a classic combo. Chicken salad or tuna salad also make tasty fillings.

Lighter options work well for snacks or light meals.

Avocado toast on a bagel is popular and nutritious. You can also try apple slices with almond butter for a sweet and healthy treat.

Considering Dietary Preferences

For vegetarians, many tasty options exist. Cream cheese and vegetables are always a good choice.

You can also try hummus, avocado, or nut butters.

Vegans can enjoy bagels too. Use dairy-free spreads like vegan cream cheese or mashed avocado.

Top with vegetables, nuts, or seeds for extra flavor and crunch.

If you’re watching your calories, opt for lighter toppings. Low-fat cream cheese or cottage cheese work well.

You can also use mustard as a spread and pile on fresh veggies.