How Many Calories In A Bagel With Cream Cheese? Helpful Tips

Are you trying to watch your calorie intake but can’t resist a bagel with cream cheese every now and then? You’re not alone. Bagels are often seen as a healthier breakfast choice, but that doesn’t mean they don’t contain calories. So how many calories in a bagel with cream cheese combos? Well, today we’re here to help answer that question. We’ll be breaking down the nutritional content of everything from plain old sesame seed medley bagels all the way up to creamy flavored gourmet options. Grab your cup of joe, get comfy and let’s explore just how much energy is hiding in a fresh-baked bagel and rich topping of luscious cream cheese spread.

What is a bagel and its nutritional components?

Bagels are typically made of refined wheat flour, salt, water, and yeast. A medium-sized plain bagel contains 289 calories, 11 grams of protein, 2 grams of fat, 56 grams of carbs, 3 grams of fiber, and varying amounts of B vitamins and iron. Bagels are generally high in carbs and low in protein and fat. In some countries such as the United States, certain nutrients are added to enhance their nutritional value.

How many calories in a bagel with cream cheese?

A large plain bagel measuring 4 1/2 inches in diameter contains approximately 360 calories. Adding one tablespoon of cream cheese increases the calorie count by 70 calories. An egg bagel has the same amount of calories, but 14 grams of protein. A multigrain bagel provides more nutritional benefits at 313 calories with 8 grams of fiber. Low-fat cream cheese can also decrease the calorie count with 31 calories per tablespoon.

The calories in a bagel with cream cheese to other breakfast options

How many calories in a bagel with cream cheese? Comparing the calorie count of a bagel and cream cheese combo to other breakfast options can help you make more informed food choices. For example, two slices of regular white toast with butter and jam will likely add up to around 390 calories – just slightly more than a plain bagel and cream cheese.

On the other hand, a larger bagel with two tablespoons of cream cheese and two slices of cheese can reach up to around 520 calories – much more than most breakfast cereals or smoothies.

The health benefits of bagels with cream cheese

When it comes to choosing a healthy breakfast option, moderation is key. Bagels with cream cheese can still be a part of your balanced diet – just remember to watch your portion size and try to choose lower-calorie toppings.

Bagel and cream cheese combinations can provide a good source of protein, carbohydrates and calcium (from the cheese). They also contain several important minerals such as iron, magnesium, phosphorus and potassium. Finally, the complex carbohydrates in bagels provide a slower release of energy throughout the day to help you stay full for longer.

How to make bagel with cream cheese at home?

Making bagels with cream cheese at home is relatively easy and can be a great way to save money while still enjoying your favorite breakfast. Here are steps:

• Combine Dairy Craft Cream Cheese, capers and dill in a bowl.
• Season with salt and pepper.
• Slice cucumber into circles.
• Toast the bagel and spread cream cheese mixture onto it.
• Place cucumber rounds on the bagel.
• Serve.

Tips to reduce calories when enjoying a bagel with cream cheese

Choose a lower calorie or less dense bagel for reduced calories. Incorporate light cream cheese or alternative such as olive oil based margarine when possible. Consider using a dip instead of a spread to help reduce how much condiment is used.

Some recipes that using bagel with cream cheese

Now that you know the basics of a bagel and cream cheese combo, why not use it as a base for some tasty creations? Here are just a few ideas:

– Breakfast Bagel Sandwich: Start by slicing a plain bagel in half. Top it with 2 tablespoons of light cream cheese, two slices of cooked bacon and 1/4 cup of sautéed spinach. For a finishing touch, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top before toasting the sandwich in your oven.

– Crispy Apple Bagel: Cut a plain bagel into four slices and spread one side with 2 tablespoons of cream cheese. Then add thin slices of apple and sprinkle them with cinnamon and sugar. Grill the bagel in your oven until the apples are softened and golden.

– Blueberry Bagel Pizzas: Spread 2 tablespoons of light cream cheese over a plain bagel and top it with 1/4 cup of blueberries. Finish by sprinkling some shredded mozzarella cheese on top, before baking for 10 minutes in your oven.

– Savory Bagel Bites: Slice a plain bagel into four pieces and top each slice with 1 tablespoon of light cream cheese. Then add your favorite toppings – such as cooked bacon, diced tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms. Bake in the oven for 10 minutes until golden and enjoy.

– Smoked Salmon Bagel: Start by spreading 2 tablespoons of cream cheese over a plain bagel. Top with 2-3 slices of smoked salmon, some capers and a sprinkle of freshly chopped dill. Then slice the bagel in half and enjoy.

How to store bagels with cream cheese?

When it comes to storing bagels with cream cheese, the best way is to keep them in an airtight container or plastic wrap. This will help keep the bagels fresh and preserve their delicious flavor for up to 3 days.

For a longer-term solution, you can also freeze your bagel and cream cheese combo for up to 3 months. To do this, simply wrap the bagels in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or a resealable freezer bag before popping them into the freezer.

When you want to enjoy your frozen bagel and cream cheese combo later on, just allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Then, slice it and toast it in your oven or toaster before enjoying as normal.

The healthier alternatives to cream cheese for your bagel

Cottage cheese

Cottage cheese is a healthier alternative to cream cheese, as it contains slightly less fat and has a chunkier texture. The texture can be made smoother by pureeing cottage cheese with a dash of lemon juice. To use cottage cheese in place of cream cheese for dips and spreads, substitute it in a 1:1 ratio. Before using it for baking or cooking, consider mixing it with cream or half-and-half for added thickness.

Greek yogurt

Greek yogurt can be used as a healthy alternative to cream cheese in dips, spreads, frostings, and baked goods. Greek yogurt is rich in protein, calcium, and vitamin B12. It can be thickened to match the texture of cream cheese by straining it overnight using a cheesecloth.

Ricotta

Ricotta cheese is a popular option for those looking for a healthier cream cheese alternative due to its soft texture and sweet, tangy taste. Ricotta contains protein, calcium, vitamin B12, and riboflavin which are all beneficial to health. Ricotta can be used as a filling or an ingredient in sauces and spreads. It can also be mixed with heavy cream or yogurt and added to baked goods and desserts.

Mascarpone

Mascarpone is a high fat cream cheese made with cream rather than milk. It has a richer and more velvety texture, making it great for fillings, spreads, frostings, and desserts. Adding salt and fresh lemon juice slightly changes the flavor to mimic that of cream cheese. Best saved for special occasions due to its high calorie content.

Hummus

Hummus is a healthy dairy-free and vegan alternative to cream cheese for spreads. It contains protein, fiber, and important micronutrients like manganese, copper, and folate. Hummus is offered in many flavors, making it a versatile option for bagels.

Kefir with chia seeds

Kefir is a probiotic-packed sour, fermented beverage made with kefir grains and milk. To make a cream cheese substitute, mix 1 cup plain kefir with 1/4 cup chia seeds and let sit for 10-20 minutes to thicken. This substitute is ideal for bagel spreads as an alternative to cream cheese.

Neufchâtel

Neufchâtel is a type of soft, spreadable cheese originating from France. Compared to cream cheese, it is lower in fat and calories but high in nutrients like calcium, phosphorus, and protein. It can be used as a substitute for cream cheese in recipes like cheesecake, frosting, sauces and spreads. However, its grainier texture changes the flavor of the final product slightly.

Silken tofu

Silken tofu makes a great vegan substitute for cream cheese in various recipes, such as vegan cheesecakes and bagel spreads, due to its soft, creamy texture. Tofu is also nutritious, providing protein, manganese, selenium, and calcium in each serving. To ensure the right ratio of ingredients, opt for recipes which already call for tofu instead of cream cheese. For an extra tangy taste, add a squeeze of lemon juice.

Cashew cheese

Cashew cheese is a great dairy-free alternative to cream cheese, offering an ample supply of fiber and protein in each serving. Nutritional yeast, which is often used in cashew cheese, is also a good source of vitamin B12. Cashew cheese works well in savory dishes such as soups, sauces and spreads; it can even be easily made at home with raw cashews, nutritional yeast, garlic powder and lemon juice.

Sour cream

Sour cream is a lower-fat alternative to cream cheese made by adding lactic acid bacteria to cream. It works well in many recipes and can give dishes a low calorie twist. Sour cream is more acidic than cream cheese, best for use in soups, sauces, and dips instead of in sweets.

Quark

Quark is a spreadable cheese popular in Europe, which has a texture and flavor similar to cream cheese. Quark offers an impressive nutritional profile, with protein and calcium contained in each serving. It can be substituted for cream cheese in any dish, including cheesecakes, frostings, cookies, sauces, and spreads. However, quark is slightly more sour than cream cheese; be sure to account for this when adjusting other ingredients in your recipe.

Conclusion: How many calories in a bagel with cream cheese

So, how many calories in a bagel with cream cheese? The answer depends heavily on the type of cream cheese and toppings you choose. A classic lox and cream cheese combo could contain as little as 200 calories – while some more indulgent recipes can easily reach 500+ calories. Ultimately, it’s important to keep an eye on your calorie intake and opt for healthier alternatives if you’re looking to reduce the overall calorie content. Whatever combination of bagel and cream cheese you choose, just make sure to enjoy it in moderation.

FAQs Calories in a bagel with cream cheese

Is cream cheese on a bagel healthy?

Bagels with cream cheese are a popular food combination but traditional cream cheese is not necessarily healthy. Cream cheese is generally low in protein and high in fat and calories. Thankfully, there are healthier options available for those who enjoy cream cheese on their bagels.

How many calories in a bagel with butter and cream cheese?

Tim Hortons Bagel with Cream Cheese and Butter contains 54g of total carbs, 52g of net carbs, 25g of fat, 11g protein and 490 calories per serving.

How many calories in a NYC bagel with cream cheese?

A 4 1/2-ounce NYC bagel has about 360 calories. Adding 1 tablespoon of cream cheese adds an additional 70 calories. Compared to a slice of white bread, which is only 1 ounce and has 79 calories, the bagel offers more refined carbohydrates.

Is a bagel and cream cheese low calorie?

A single tablespoon of regular cream cheese on a whole-wheat bagel adds 50 calories, for a total of 295. Adding a second tablespoon can bring the calorie count up to 345.

How many calories is a bagel with cream cheese Dunkin Donuts?

Dunkin Donuts Everything Bagel With Cream Cheese contains 420 calories per serving. It has 0g total carbs, 0g net carbs, 13g fat, and 0g protein.

How many calories in a whole wheat bagel with cream cheese?

A whole wheat bagel with 1 tablespoon of regular cream cheese adds 50 calories, for a total of 295. Adding a second tablespoon brings the total calories in the meal to 345.

How many calories in a toasted bagel with cream cheese?

One serving of Pure Breakfast Toasted Bagel with Cream Cheese contains 385 calories. It also has 51.3g total carbs, 47g net carbs, 15g fat, and 13g protein.

How many calories in a mini bagel with cream cheese?

A mini bagel with cream cheese contains 71 kcal. A serving size of a bagel with cream cheese contains 286 kcal. A small size of a bagel with cream cheese contains 188 kcal. A one-ounce portion of a bagel with cream cheese contains 77 kcal. A 100g portion of a bagel with cream cheese contains 273 kcal.

How many calories in a bacon egg and cream cheese bagel?

Bacon, egg, and cheese bagels typically contain between 500-600 calories per sandwich.

Can I eat a bagel with cream cheese that’s been sitting out?

Cream cheese that has been left out of the fridge for two hours or more should not be consumed. It is recommended to dispose of any cream cheese that has been sitting out.