Substitute for Cream Cheese on Bagels: Spreads That Work
When making bagels, the best substitute for cream cheese is Neufchatel Cheese. Neufchatel is essentially cream cheese with 1/3 less fat. It tastes and spreads identically. Most grocery stores carry it right next to cream cheese. Cream cheese on bagels is a classic. It provides a thick, tangy, creamy spread. The substitute needs to be spreadable, slightly tangy, and thick enough to stay on a bagel without sliding off.
Best Substitute
Neufchatel Cheese
Same amount as cream cheese
Neufchatel is essentially cream cheese with 1/3 less fat. It tastes and spreads identically. Most grocery stores carry it right next to cream cheese.
What else can I use instead of cream cheese in bagels?
Greek Yogurt Cream Cheese
Strain Greek yogurt overnight through cheesecloth
The strained yogurt is thick, tangy, and spreadable. Tastes like a lighter cream cheese. Spread on bagels or mix with herbs.
Cashew Cream Cheese
Blend soaked cashews with lemon juice, salt, and garlic powder
The best vegan bagel spread. Thick, tangy, and creamy. Add herbs, everything bagel seasoning, or smoked salmon-style flavoring.
Ricotta (whole milk)
Spread ricotta on bagel, drizzle with honey and a pinch of salt
Lighter than cream cheese. Pairs well with smoked salmon, tomato, or honey. Use whole milk ricotta for best results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I use instead of cream cheese on a bagel?
Neufchatel cheese tastes identical with 1/3 less fat. Strained Greek yogurt (overnight through cheesecloth) makes a tangy, spreadable substitute. For vegan, blend soaked cashews with lemon juice for cashew cream cheese.
Is ricotta good on bagels?
Yes. Spread whole-milk ricotta on a toasted bagel and top with smoked salmon, tomatoes, and capers, or drizzle with honey and a pinch of salt. It is lighter and milder than cream cheese.