My take on the popular bacon scallion cream cheese spread I loved at Brugger’s Bagels. This simple, flavorful recipe also makes a great low-carb vegetable dip or a savory filling for chicken.
This recipe recreates the beloved bacon scallion cream cheese spread I used to buy at Brugger’s Bagels. It uses a short ingredient list—full-fat cream cheese, crisp bacon and fresh scallions—so it’s quick to prepare and packed with savory flavor. It’s perfect smeared on bagels or English muffins, spooned over vegetables as a dip, or used to stuff chicken breasts for an easy dinner.
Bacon Scallion Cream Cheese Spread
I used to stop at Brugger’s Bagels regularly for a sesame bagel with this exact spread. Now I make it at home where it’s even simpler to control the ingredients and adjust the flavors to taste. Using full-fat cream cheese gives the spread a rich, creamy texture and helps it hold together, while lemon juice and a touch of sweetener balance the salty bacon and bright scallions.
If you follow a low-carb or keto plan, this spread pairs beautifully with homemade low-carb bagels, crisp veggies, or as a component in low-carb appetizers. Even if you’re not following a low-carb diet, this spread is a delicious, simple condiment to keep in the fridge for quick breakfasts and snacks.
Bacon Scallion Cream Cheese Spread — about 1 net carb per serving
Bacon Scallion Cream Cheese Spread for Bagels
Ingredients
- 8 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 2 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (add more if you prefer more bacon)
- 2 tablespoons chopped scallions, including light green parts
- 2 tablespoons almond milk or heavy cream (use milk for non-low-carb)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons white vinegar
- 1–2 teaspoons low-carb powdered sweetener (or confectioners’ style sweetener; use regular powdered sugar if not low-carb)
Instructions
- Place the softened cream cheese in a medium bowl.
- Add the almond milk (or heavy cream), lemon juice, vinegar, and sweetener. Blend until smooth; a hand mixer works well for a light, spreadable texture.
- Fold in the crumbled bacon and chopped scallions until evenly distributed.
- Cover and refrigerate for about an hour to firm up slightly. The spread will remain soft enough to spread easily.
- A serving is approximately 2½ tablespoons, which is roughly 1 net carb per serving.
Notes
Storage: Keep the spread refrigerated in an airtight container for up to one week. Stir briefly before serving if it separates slightly.
Variations and uses: Add a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika for a smoky depth. Use the spread as a dip for raw vegetables, a filling for stuffed chicken breasts, or a flavorful topping for baked potatoes or low-carb crackers.
Texture tips: For a firmer dip, reduce the milk or cream slightly and chill longer. For a lighter spread, whip the cream cheese briefly before folding in the other ingredients.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 1 g |
Protein: 3 g |
Fat: 11 g |
Sodium: 109 mg
Serve on toasted bagels, English muffins or spread on slices of grilled bread. For a low-carb breakfast, use it on keto-style bagels or enjoy it as a creamy dip for sliced cucumbers, bell peppers and celery.
This spread pairs nicely with other savory dips and appetizers—think buffalo-style chicken dip or a simple herb cheese—so it’s easy to add to a party platter or casual snack board.