If you’ve never tried a honey almond cream cheese bagel, you’re in for a real treat! It’s the perfect combo of sweet, creamy, and a little bit crunchy. Whether you’re making breakfast special or just need a yummy snack, this easy recipe is going to be your new go-to.
Ingredients for Honey Almond Cream Cheese Bagel
Let’s dive into the good stuff—what you’ll need to make a delicious honey almond cream cheese bagel! The best part? This recipe is super easy and doesn’t require a long shopping list. In fact, you probably have most of these ingredients sitting in your kitchen already.
Creamy & Sweet Base
This is the heart of the recipe—the sweet and nutty honey almond cream cheese spread that turns a simple bagel into something special.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened (regular or light both work great)
- 1½ tablespoons honey (feel free to adjust based on how sweet you like it)
- 2 tablespoons sliced almonds, lightly toasted for that extra crunch and nutty flavor
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract (totally optional, but it adds a cozy, warm touch)
- Pinch of salt (just a little to balance the sweetness)
This creamy spread is a lot like the popular honey almond shmear you might find at bagel spots like Einstein’s or Noah’s, but this one’s homemade and even better!
Bagel of Choice
Now let’s talk about the base—your bagel. This part is totally up to you!
- 1 bagel, sliced in half (plain, whole wheat, or multigrain all work well)
- Optional toppings: drizzle of honey or extra almonds on top for extra crunch and sweetness
Whether you’re a fan of the Philadelphia honey almond cream cheese or curious about trying something like the Einstein honey almond cream cheese nutrition-friendly version, this homemade take gives you full control. You can make it just the way you like—with more honey, less sugar, or even a low-fat version.
Plus, it’s perfect for breakfast, snack time, or even dessert. Quick, tasty, and totally satisfying!
Step-by-Step Guide
Making this honey almond cream cheese recipe is super easy. No fancy tools. Just a bowl, a spoon, and a toaster.
Step 1: Soften the Cream Cheese
Let your cream cheese sit out for 10–15 minutes until soft. This makes it easier to mix and spread.
Step 2: Toast the Almonds
In a dry pan, toast the sliced almonds over medium heat for 2–3 minutes. Stir them often. They should smell nutty and turn golden brown.
Step 3: Mix the Cream Cheese Spread
In a small bowl, stir together:
- Cream cheese
- Honey
- Vanilla
- Pinch of salt
- Toasted almonds (save a few to sprinkle on top)
Mix until smooth and creamy. This homemade version tastes just like honey almond cream cheese Einstein’s offers, but fresher.
Step 4: Toast the Bagel
Pop your bagel in the toaster or oven until golden. A little crunch adds a great texture next to the creamy spread.
Step 5: Assemble and Enjoy
Spread your honey almond cream cheese on the warm bagel. Add extra honey or almonds on top if you like.
You now have a delicious, homemade honey almond cream cheese bagel. It’s easy, satisfying, and tastes amazing—just like the bagel shops!
Health Benefits
You might think bagels and cream cheese are just a tasty breakfast or a fun snack—but when you choose the right ingredients, this combo can come with some surprising health benefits too. Let’s take a closer look at why your honey almond cream cheese bagel isn’t just delicious, but can actually be a smart choice for your day.
Packed with Protein and Energy
Both cream cheese and almonds are filled with protein and healthy fats. That means this bagel can keep you full and satisfied for longer. No more feeling hungry an hour after breakfast!
- Protein helps build and repair muscles
- Healthy fats give your body fuel and support brain health
This makes it a great option for busy mornings or an afternoon snack that won’t leave you crashing later.
Natural Sweetness from Honey
The sweetness in this recipe comes from honey, not processed sugar. That’s a win!
- Honey is full of natural antioxidants, which help protect your body
- It also provides steady energy, so you won’t feel jittery or crash like you might with sugary snacks
Plus, it just tastes amazing when mixed with creamy cheese and crunchy almonds!
Almonds for Heart Health
Almonds are more than just a crunchy topping. They’re full of good-for-you nutrients:
- Vitamin E, which helps your skin and immune system
- Heart-healthy fats, which can support healthy cholesterol levels
Including almonds in your bagel spread is a small but powerful way to care for your heart—delicious and smart.
Supports a Balanced Breakfast
Want to make your morning meal even better? Pair your honey almond cream cheese bagel with:
- A boiled egg (for more protein)
- A banana or apple (for fiber and vitamins)
- A glass of water or unsweetened tea
This combo gives you a well-rounded breakfast with carbs, protein, and healthy fats—everything your body needs to stay energized.
A Lighter Option
Looking for a way to enjoy this without going overboard? No problem!
- Use a whole wheat bagel instead of white
- Choose low-fat cream cheese
- Add extra almonds for crunch, not extra sugar
That way, you’re still getting all the flavor and satisfaction—but with a healthier twist that fits into your daily goals. It’s a great version of the honey almond cream cheese bagel healthy eaters will love.
Tips for Achieving the Best Results
Making a delicious honey almond cream cheese bagel at home doesn’t take much—but a few simple tricks can really make it taste like it came from a coffee shop. Whether you’re trying to recreate the flavor of the Einstein honey almond cream cheese or just want the best homemade version, these tips will help you get it just right.
Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese
Trying to spread cold cream cheese? Not fun.
Let your cream cheese sit out for 10–15 minutes before mixing. This helps it become soft and smooth, so it’s easier to blend with the honey and almonds.
- No lumps
- Easier to spread on your bagel
- Better texture for mixing in flavors
Soft cream cheese means a creamier, dreamier bite every time.
Toast the Almonds
Want that amazing crunch and deep nutty flavor? Toast your sliced almonds!
It only takes 2–3 minutes in a dry pan over medium heat. Keep an eye on them—they can burn fast!
Toasting brings out the rich flavor in almonds and adds that little crunch that makes your bagel spread even better.
Choose a Fresh Bagel
The bagel is the base of it all, so don’t skip this step.
- Grab a fresh bagel from your local bakery if possible
- If it’s still warm, even better!
- Avoid bagels that feel too dry or hard
A soft, fresh bagel gives you that perfect bite—and holds up well with all the toppings.
Try Different Honeys
Not all honey tastes the same. Different types can change the flavor in fun ways.
- Clover honey is mild and sweet
- Wildflower honey has a deeper, richer taste
- Orange blossom honey adds a hint of citrus
It’s fun to play around and find your favorite flavor combo. This can take your recipe from simple to special.
Add a Sprinkle of Sea Salt
This small step makes a big difference.
A pinch of flaky sea salt on top balances the sweetness from the honey and gives your bagel a little gourmet twist.
It’s the kind of detail that makes it taste like a real honey almond shmear from a coffee shop, like Einstein’s or Noah’s.
Pair your honey almond cream cheese bagel with a piece of fruit or try something savory like our simple avocado in toast recipe for a balanced breakfast.
Variations of Honey Almond Cream Cheese Bagel
Want to mix things up? You totally can! This honey almond cream cheese bagel is super easy to customize. Whether you’re avoiding nuts, going gluten-free, or just feeling creative, here are fun ways to switch it up.
Go Nut-Free
No almonds? No problem.
- Try sunflower seeds for crunch
- Skip the nuts entirely—the honey cream cheese is still sweet and smooth
- Add a few extra toppings like fruit to make up for the texture
This is perfect if you’re avoiding nuts or packing one for a school snack.
Use Flavored Bagels
A different bagel can totally change the vibe. Try one of these:
- Cinnamon raisin bagel for extra sweetness
- Whole wheat for a heartier, healthier option
- Everything bagel for a salty-sweet surprise
- Gluten-free bagels if you’re avoiding gluten
The creamy honey almond shmear tastes amazing on all of them!
Add Fruit on Top
Want to take it up a notch? Add some fresh or dried fruit on top for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Sliced bananas
- Fresh strawberries or blueberries
- A handful of dried cranberries
These pair beautifully with the honey almond cream cheese flavor and add a little boost of color and fun.
Add a Touch of Spice
Spices can bring warm, cozy vibes to your bagel—especially during fall.
- A dash of cinnamon
- A pinch of nutmeg
- Even a tiny bit of pumpkin spice if you’re feeling seasonal
These spices blend well with honey and cream cheese, creating something that feels fancy but is still super easy.
Make It Vegan
Yes, you can totally make this vegan!
- Use plant-based cream cheese
- Choose a vegan-friendly bagel
- Swap honey for maple syrup or agave
You’ll still get that sweet, creamy goodness with all the flavor of the original recipe.
Even simple recipes like this or our cheese and chive bagel can go a little sideways if you’re not paying attention to the little things.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even simple recipes can go a little sideways if you’re not paying attention to the little things. If you want your honey almond cream cheese bagel to taste like the ones from Einstein’s or Noah’s, avoid these common mistakes.
Using Cold Cream Cheese
Nobody wants a lumpy spread! Cold cream cheese is hard to mix and won’t blend well with the honey and almonds.
- Let it sit out at room temperature for about 15 minutes
- This makes it soft and easy to stir
- You’ll get a smoother, creamier texture
This simple step makes your honey almond cream cheese recipe way better.
Skipping the Toasted Almonds
Toasting the almonds is a game changer.
- Raw almonds can taste bland
- Toasting brings out the nutty flavor and gives a nice crunch
- Just heat them in a dry pan for 2–3 minutes until golden
If you love that Einstein honey almond cream cheese flavor, this step is a must.
Overloading the Spread
It’s tempting to pile on the honey almond shmear, but too much of a good thing can be… not so good.
- A thick layer can make the bagel soggy
- It might overpower the flavor of the bagel itself
- Stick to a light, even layer so you get the perfect bite every time
Balance is key to enjoying the creamy and crunchy textures.
Choosing a Stale Bagel
The base matters more than you think.
- Old, dry bagels won’t hold up to the spread
- You lose that soft-inside, crunchy-outside combo
- Choose a fresh, bakery-style bagel—or toast a store-bought one to bring it back to life
A fresh bagel = the best honey almond cream cheese bagel experience.
Not Mixing Thoroughly
No one wants a mouthful of plain cream cheese followed by a burst of honey. That’s why mixing matters.
- Stir until smooth and creamy
- Make sure everything blends evenly—no clumps, no surprises
- It should look like a fluffy, slightly golden spread
When everything’s mixed well, the flavor stays consistent in every bite.
Serving Suggestions
Sure, it’s tasty on its own—but there are so many fun ways to serve your honey almond cream cheese bagel. Here are some easy and delicious ideas.
Serve with Fresh Fruit
Add color and a boost of vitamins to your plate with:
- Apple slices
- Berries
- Orange wedges
- Grapes
They balance the rich, sweet cream cheese spread perfectly.
Pair with a Hot Drink
Try serving your bagel with:
- Hot coffee or a latte
- Herbal tea like chamomile or mint
- A warm glass of almond milk with honey
These cozy combos turn a snack into a relaxing moment.
Cut Into Mini Bites for Sharing
Hosting brunch or a small get-together? Cut your bagel into bite-sized pieces. They make tasty, shareable snacks that look fancy with a little honey drizzle on top.
Make It a Breakfast Sandwich
Try this twist: add a fried egg or turkey bacon between the bagel halves. It adds protein and turns this into a full meal.
Add a Crunchy Topping
Sprinkle chopped walnuts, granola, or extra toasted almonds on top for a fun crunch and more flavor.
Fruits like blueberries work great with the honey almond shmear flavor—check out how we use them in this blueberry bagel with strawberry cream cheese recipe!
Storing & Reheating
Got leftovers or want to prep ahead? No worries! Here’s how to store your honey almond cream cheese and bagels the right way.
Store the Spread Separately
Keep your honey almond cream cheese in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to 5 days.
Tip: Let it sit at room temp for 5–10 minutes before using—it’s easier to spread!
Freeze Bagels for Later
Don’t want stale bagels? Freeze them! Just:
- Slice the bagels first
- Wrap tightly in plastic or foil
- Store in a freezer bag
They’ll stay good for up to 2 months.
Reheat Like a Pro
To reheat frozen bagels:
- Toast straight from the freezer
- Or warm in a 300°F oven for 8–10 minutes
Avoid microwaving—it makes them rubbery instead of crispy.
Don’t Store Assembled Bagels
Once you spread the cream cheese, the bagel will get soggy if stored too long. Always store the parts separately and assemble when you’re ready to eat.
Conclusion
The honey almond cream cheese bagel is a delicious mix of sweet, nutty, and creamy—all on top of a warm, chewy bagel. It’s super easy to make at home and even easier to enjoy.
Whether you’re using it for breakfast, a quick snack, or to impress guests at brunch, this tasty treat is always a winner. Plus, you can make it just the way you like with fun variations and healthy swaps.
So grab your favorite bagel, whip up some sweet almond cream cheese, and enjoy a cozy bite that feels a little special.
FAQ
Is cream cheese and honey good on bagel?
Yes! It’s sweet, creamy, and rich. Add almonds and you’ve got a flavor that’s both comforting and exciting. Many people love it for breakfast or as a midday snack.
Can you mix honey with cream cheese?
Definitely. They blend together easily, especially when the cream cheese is soft. The honey adds natural sweetness and makes it perfect for bagels or fruit dips.
Are bagels and cream cheese healthy?
They can be, especially if you use whole grain bagels and watch the portion size. Add-ins like almonds and honey bring in healthy fats and natural energy.
What pairs well with cream cheese on a bagel?
So many things! Try fruits like strawberries or bananas, crunchy nuts, or a drizzle of extra honey. Even cinnamon or sea salt can add a fun twist.
Is bagel with cream cheese healthier than butter?
Usually, yes. Cream cheese has a bit more protein and less saturated fat than butter. Add almonds for even more healthy fats and fiber.
What goes well with honey on a bagel?
Cream cheese, for sure! But also peanut butter, bananas, or even Greek yogurt. Honey adds sweetness to all kinds of bagel toppings.
Homemade Honey Almond Cream Cheese Bagel
Course: Breakfast RecipesCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy2
bagels10
minutes5
minutes350
kcal15
minutesThis honey almond cream cheese bagel is sweet, creamy, and topped with toasted almonds—perfect for a cozy breakfast or a quick snack anytime.
Ingredients
- For the Honey Almond Cream Cheese:
4 oz cream cheese (softened)
1 tbsp honey
1 tbsp powdered sugar (optional for extra sweetness)
1½ tbsp sliced almonds, toasted
½ tsp vanilla extract (optional, for flavor)
- For the Bagels:
2 plain or whole wheat bagels, sliced
Extra honey and almonds for topping (optional)
Directions
- Toast the almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes until golden and fragrant. Let them cool.
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, honey, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Stir in most of the toasted almonds, saving some for topping.
- Toast the bagels to your desired crispiness.
- Spread a generous layer of honey almond cream cheese on each bagel half.
- Sprinkle extra toasted almonds and drizzle with honey if you like.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- You can make the cream cheese ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Try this on other breads like English muffins or croissants.
- Use low-fat cream cheese or whole grain bagels to make it healthier.
- For a crunchier texture, chill the spread before serving.
Share Your Experience
Tried this honey almond cream cheese bagel recipe? We’d love to hear how it turned out!
- Did you add any fruit or spice?
- Which bagel flavor did you use?
- Got your own twist on the honey almond cream cheese einsteins recipe?
Share your version in the comments or tag us on social media. Your ideas might just inspire someone else’s next breakfast!
