Sweet Apple Bagel Spread
Make a sweet apple cream cheese spread with sautéed Granny Smith apples, brown sugar and apple pie spice. Perfect for brunch or bagel bars.
I love cream cheese on a toasted bagel. This apple flavored cream cheese recipe is a decadent version. Perfect for Brunch Buffets .
Submitted by: Lois from West Allis, WI
Yield: 4
- Cook diced apples until the moisture is gone for a thick, non-soggy spread.
- Mix cooled apples with cream cheese, brown sugar and apple pie spice; add raisins if desired.
- Store chilled up to 3 to 4 days; bring to room temperature before serving for best texture.
Spices
Featured in this Recipe
Preparation Instructions:
Melt butter in a non-stick skillet, add diced apples, and cook until soft and moisture is gone.
Cool apples to room temperature.
Combine apples, cheese, sugar, spice, salt and raisins, if using in a bowl.
Stir till mixed evenly.
Spread on toasted bagels and serve.
thespicehouse.com
More About This Recipe
Cinnamon Raisin Bagels are a good choice. Great served with a cup of my Spiced Hot Chocolate.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will this apple cream cheese keep in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, the spread stays good for 3 to 4 days. Keep it refrigerated and do not leave it at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Can I use low-fat or whipped cream cheese?
Yes. Low-fat cream cheese works but the spread will be slightly less rich. Whipped cream cheese makes a lighter texture. Taste and adjust the sugar if you use lower-fat options.
Can I make this ahead for a brunch buffet?
Yes. Cook the apples, cool them, then mix with cream cheese and chill. It keeps best for 24 to 48 hours. Let it sit at room temperature 15 to 30 minutes before serving so it spreads easily.
What apples work best if I don't have Granny Smith?
Granny Smith gives nice tart contrast. If you prefer sweeter, use Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala. Reduce the brown sugar if you use a sweeter apple.
How can I prevent the spread from becoming soggy?
Cook the diced apples until they are soft and most moisture has evaporated. Drain any released liquid and let the apples cool completely before mixing with the cream cheese.
Can I make a dairy-free or vegan version?
Yes. Substitute a plant-based cream cheese and use vegan butter or a little neutral oil to sauté the apples. Check labels to ensure the brands you pick fit your diet.
Can I freeze the spread?
Freezing the assembled spread is not recommended because the cream cheese can change texture. You can freeze the cooked apples alone for up to 3 months, then thaw and mix into fresh cream cheese.
How can I cut down on sugar without losing flavor?
Reduce the brown sugar by half and taste as you go. You can replace some sugar with a splash of maple syrup or honey for depth. Using a sweeter apple also lets you use less added sugar.
How long will this apple cream cheese keep in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, the spread stays good for 3 to 4 days. Keep it refrigerated and do not leave it at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Can I use low-fat or whipped cream cheese?
Yes. Low-fat cream cheese works but the spread will be slightly less rich. Whipped cream cheese makes a lighter texture. Taste and adjust the sugar if you use lower-fat options.
Can I make this ahead for a brunch buffet?
Yes. Cook the apples, cool them, then mix with cream cheese and chill. It keeps best for 24 to 48 hours. Let it sit at room temperature 15 to 30 minutes before serving so it spreads easily.
What apples work best if I don't have Granny Smith?
Granny Smith gives nice tart contrast. If you prefer sweeter, use Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala. Reduce the brown sugar if you use a sweeter apple.
How can I prevent the spread from becoming soggy?
Cook the diced apples until they are soft and most moisture has evaporated. Drain any released liquid and let the apples cool completely before mixing with the cream cheese.
Can I make a dairy-free or vegan version?
Yes. Substitute a plant-based cream cheese and use vegan butter or a little neutral oil to sauté the apples. Check labels to ensure the brands you pick fit your diet.
Can I freeze the spread?
Freezing the assembled spread is not recommended because the cream cheese can change texture. You can freeze the cooked apples alone for up to 3 months, then thaw and mix into fresh cream cheese.
How can I cut down on sugar without losing flavor?
Reduce the brown sugar by half and taste as you go. You can replace some sugar with a splash of maple syrup or honey for depth. Using a sweeter apple also lets you use less added sugar.
Comments