Rise 'n Shine

I love bagels! While I have been known to have one toasted for breakfast, I haven't let that stop me from having them for lunch (sometimes with sandwich fixings inside), a fast dinner (they're great smothered with pizza toppings and warmed under the broiler) and even as a snack.

This month, I present a couple of my favorite bagel spreads. They all start with a block of softened 1/3-less-fat cream cheese. From there, the sky's the limit! If you have a favorite spread, please let me know. I'm always looking for something wonderful to spread on my bagel!

Orange Bagel Spread

  • 1 (8 oz.) pkg. 1/3-less-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 3 T. orange marmalade
  • 2 T. pecans, finely chopped

Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl. Beat on medium speed until well blended. Store in an air-tight container in the refrigerator. Use within one week for best quality.

  • Yields: about 1 1/2 cups spread
  • Preparation Time: 5 minutes

Maple Nut Bagel Spread

  • 1 (8 oz.) pkg. 1/3-less-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 2 T. maple syrup
  • 2 T. walnuts, chopped

Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl. Beat on medium speed until well blended. Store in an air-tight container in the refrigerator. Use within one week for best quality.

  • Yields: about 1 1/2 cups spread
  • Preparation Time: 5 minutes

Cinnamon Raisin Bagel Spread

  • 1 (8 oz.) pkg. 1/3-less-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 2 T. sugar
  • 1 tsp. ground cinnamon
  • 3 T. golden raisins

Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl. Mix until well blended. Store in an air-tight container in the refrigerator. Use within one week for best quality.

  • Yields: about 1 1/2 cups spread
  • Preparation Time: 5 minutes

Crab Bagel Spread

  • 1 (8 oz.) pkg. 1/3-less-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 c. crabmeat, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp. lemon juice
  • 2 T. onion, finely chopped

Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl. Mix until well blended. Store in an air-tight container in the refrigerator. Use within one week for best quality.

  • Yields: about 1 1/2 cups spread
  • Preparation Time: 5 minutes