These Everything Bagel Cucumber Bites are refreshing and packed with flavor! They’re made with crisp cucumber slices, cream cheese, and that famous everything bagel seasoning.
Perfect for parties or a quick snack, these bites are easy to make and oh-so-tasty. I love how the crunch of the cucumber pairs perfectly with the creamy filling—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumber: A large cucumber is the star here! You can use English cucumbers for their thinner skin and fewer seeds. If you can’t find them, regular cucumbers will work just fine. Just peel if the skin is thick.
Cream Cheese: The creamy base for these bites! If you’re dairy-free, consider using a vegan cream cheese alternative. I sometimes swap in ricotta for a lighter texture.
Sour Cream/Greek Yogurt: These add moisture and tang. If you’re watching calories, use low-fat versions. For a dairy-free option, use coconut yogurt—just be aware of the flavor difference!
Everything Bagel Seasoning: You can make your own (see the recipe above) or purchase it pre-made. It adds tons of flavor! If you don’t have the ingredients, a sprinkle of sesame seeds and garlic powder works in a pinch.
How Do You Get the Perfect Cream Cheese Mixture?
Achieving a smooth, creamy filling is key for these bites! Start with softened cream cheese—this makes it much easier to blend.
- Combine your cream cheese, any optional sour cream or yogurt, and the spices in a bowl.
- Mix with a hand mixer or fork until smooth; this helps avoid lumps.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste and try a little dip to ensure the flavor is just right!
Delicious Everything Bagel Cucumber Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cucumber Bites:
- 1 large cucumber
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional for creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt, to taste
- Everything bagel seasoning blend (store-bought or homemade – see below)
Homemade Everything Bagel Seasoning:
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (toasted if desired)
- 1 teaspoon dried minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried minced onion
- 1/2 teaspoon coarse salt
- Optional: a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare. There’s no cooking involved, just some slicing and mixing, making it a quick and easy appetizer or snack—and you can enjoy it right away or chill for a bit to enhance the flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Cucumbers:
Start by washing the cucumber thoroughly to remove any dirt. Slice it into about ½-inch thick rounds. To keep them from being too watery, pat the slices dry with paper towels.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Mixture:
In a medium bowl, add your softened cream cheese, sour cream or Greek yogurt (if you’re using it), garlic powder, onion powder, and a little salt. Use a spatula or an electric mixer to blend everything until it’s smooth and creamy.
3. Assemble Your Cucumber Bites:
Using a small spoon or a piping bag (if you want them to look extra nice), place a generous dollop of the cream cheese mixture on each cucumber slice. Don’t be shy—make them deliciously creamy!
4. Add the Everything Bagel Seasoning:
Grab your everything bagel seasoning and sprinkle a good amount over the cream cheese on each cucumber slice. This is where the flavor really comes alive!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Arrange your beautiful cucumber bites on a serving platter. They are best enjoyed fresh, but you can refrigerate them for up to 1 hour to let the flavors meld a bit. Just be careful not to leave them too long, as cucumbers can start to lose their crunch.
Enjoy these tasty, fresh bites as a quick snack or a crowd-pleasing appetizer at your next gathering! They’re sure to impress!
Can I Make These Cucumber Bites Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the cream cheese mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just assemble the cucumber bites right before serving to ensure they stay crunchy!
What If I Don’t Have Cream Cheese?
No problem! You can substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a lighter option or use a dairy-free cream cheese if you’re looking for a vegan alternative. Ricotta cheese also works well for a different texture!
How Do I Store Leftover Cucumber Bites?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best to eat them within 24 hours, as the cucumbers can become soggy over time.
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Cucumbers?
Absolutely! You can try using carrot sticks, bell pepper slices, or zucchini rounds for a different twist. Just keep the toppings in mind, as some veggies might have different moisture levels!
