If you’ve got a soft spot for brunch-time indulgence, you’re about to fall in love with this French Toast Bagel with Maple Cream Cheese. Imagine the comforting warmth of classic French toast wrapped around your favorite bagel, made extra luscious with a swirl of velvety maple cream cheese on top. It’s a dish that turns any ordinary morning into something bold and celebratory, uniting cinnamon-kissed custard, golden-fried bagels, and a heavenly sweet cheese spread. Whether served for a slow Sunday breakfast or a show-stopping brunch with friends, this recipe bursts with cozy flavor and cozy moments.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this French Toast Bagel with Maple Cream Cheese is just how effortless and accessible these ingredients are. Each one brings its own unique character—fluffy eggs for richness, warming spices for depth, and the iconic mapley swirl for pure joy. If you have these kitchen staples on hand, you’re already halfway there.
- Bagels (2, preferably cinnamon raisin or plain): Using bagels instead of bread gives the dish a satisfyingly chewy texture and a perfect base for soaking up the custardy goodness.
- Large Eggs (2): Essential for creating the classic French toast custard—rich, binding, and indulgent.
- Milk (1/4 cup): This makes the custard light, fluffy, and ensures the bagels soak up enough moisture.
- Ground Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon plus 1/4 teaspoon): Brings a warm, aromatic note both in the custard and the maple cream cheese.
- Ground Nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): Just a pinch adds subtle depth and a touch of autumn spice.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Infuses a lovely sweetness and rounds out all the flavors.
- Pinch of Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances each ingredient’s natural taste.
- Butter for frying: Provides a golden, flavorful crust for each bagel half.
- Cream Cheese (4 oz, softened): Forms the velvety base of the maple spread—rich, creamy, and dreamy when whipped with syrup.
- Maple Syrup (2 tablespoons): Lends natural sweetness and signature maple flavor to the cream cheese topping.
How to Make French Toast Bagel with Maple Cream Cheese
Step 1: Prepare the Custard Base
Start by getting a shallow bowl and giving your eggs, milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt a good whisking. This mixture should look and smell wonderfully spiced from the get-go, so don’t rush—make sure it’s nice and smooth. It’s the foundation that transforms humble bagels into something magic.
Step 2: Soak the Bagels
Slice your chosen bagels in half horizontally. Dip each half into the eggy custard, allowing it to bathe on each side for a few seconds. Be generous here—let the bagels really soak up all that flavor for tender middles and crispy edges when they hit the pan.
Step 3: Cook to Golden Perfection
Melt a knob of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once bubbling, lay the soaked bagel halves cut-side down. Fry for 2–3 minutes per side, resisting the urge to flip too early; you’re aiming for a beautiful golden color and just-cooked centers. The kitchen will smell like cinnamon and maple dreams!
Step 4: Mix Up Maple Cream Cheese
While your bagels turn golden, combine softened cream cheese, maple syrup, and a little cinnamon in a bowl. Mix until it’s creamy and ultra-smooth—the maple cream cheese should be spreadable, fluffy, and so delicious you’ll want to taste-test immediately (go ahead, I won’t tell).
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
When the bagels are crisp and ready, slather each one with a generous layer of maple cream cheese. The warmth from the French toast bagel will soften the topping ever so slightly, making each bite pure decadence. Invite friends, grab forks, and dig in while everything is still warm!
How to Serve French Toast Bagel with Maple Cream Cheese
Garnishes
A dish this special deserves a finishing touch. I love adding a handful of fresh berries, a dusting of extra cinnamon, or a final drizzle of maple syrup on top of your French Toast Bagel with Maple Cream Cheese. For a festive flair, add toasted nuts or edible flowers for that picture-perfect plate.
Side Dishes
To round out your breakfast table, pair these French Toast Bagels with a side of crisp bacon, scrambled eggs, or a bright fruit salad. For brunch gatherings, serve alongside mimosas or fresh-squeezed orange juice to complement the sweet and creamy flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack the bagel halves high for a dramatic brunch platter, or cut them into quarters for charming bite-sized treats at larger gatherings. You can even sandwich the maple cream cheese between two halves and slice into wedges for a fun twist on classic presentation—kids and adults alike will swoon!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with a leftover French Toast Bagel with Maple Cream Cheese, simply let the bagel halves cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The maple cream cheese can be kept separately or smoothed over before storing, and both will stay fresh for up to 2 days.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the cooked French toast bagel halves (without the cream cheese) in a single layer before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to one month. I recommend prepping the maple cream cheese fresh, though you can freeze it in a pinch.
Reheating
To enjoy again, thaw frozen French toast bagels overnight in the fridge. Warm them gently in a toaster oven or on a skillet over low heat until heated through. Give the maple cream cheese a quick stir, and spread generously once the bagels are warm. You’ll barely notice they’re not made fresh!
FAQs
Can I use any type Breakfast
Absolutely! While cinnamon raisin and plain are favorites for their sweetness and soft texture, feel free to try everything, whole wheat, or even blueberry bagels for a new twist on your French Toast Bagel with Maple Cream Cheese.
Is there a dairy-free option for the maple cream cheese?
Yes! Just swap in your favorite plant-based cream cheese and a non-dairy milk for the custard. You’ll still get all the luscious, creamy sweetness that makes this recipe shine, completely dairy free.
Can I make the maple cream cheese in advance?
Definitely. Whip up the maple cream cheese a day or two ahead and store it in the fridge in a covered container. Just let it soften at room temperature for a few minutes before spreading on your freshly cooked bagels.
What’s the best way to avoid soggy bagels?
Don’t oversoak! Give each bagel half a quick bath (a few seconds per side) in the custard, but don’t leave them sitting too long. This ensures a soft, custardy inside with a lightly crisp exterior for your French Toast Bagel with Maple Cream Cheese.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Absolutely, this French Toast Bagel with Maple Cream Cheese is a brunch superstar for feeding friends or family. Simply scale up the custard and topping amounts as needed, and cook in batches. Keep finished bagels warm in a low oven until ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to make brunch memorable, this French Toast Bagel with Maple Cream Cheese is calling your name. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create something truly special, whether it’s for a lazy weekend treat or the centerpiece of your next brunch party. Give it a try soon—you’re going to crave it again and again!
Print
French Toast Bagel with Maple Cream Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings (4 bagel halves)
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a delightful breakfast treat with this French Toast Bagel topped with a luscious Maple Cream Cheese. Perfectly sweet and satisfying, this dish is a surefire way to start your day on a delicious note.
Ingredients
French Toast Bagel:
- 2 bagels (preferably cinnamon raisin or plain)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- pinch of salt
- butter for frying
Maple Cream Cheese:
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- In a shallow bowl, prepare the egg mixture: Whisk together eggs, milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Prepare the bagels: Slice the bagels in half and dip each half into the egg mixture.
- Cook the bagels: Fry the soaked bagel halves in butter until golden brown on both sides.
- Make the maple cream cheese: Mix softened cream cheese with maple syrup and cinnamon until smooth.
- Assemble and serve: Spread the maple cream cheese on the warm bagels and enjoy topped with fresh berries or extra maple syrup.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk and cream cheese.
- The maple cream cheese can be prepared ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- This recipe is a great way to use up leftover bagels.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 bagel halves
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
