Honey Almond Shmear from Einstein Bros. Bagels features a creamy blend of sweet honey and crunchy toasted almonds, spread smoothly to complement any freshly baked bagel with its rich, nutty flavor and golden, velvety texture.
Equipments
- Mixing bowl
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Spatula
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Small skillet (for toasting almonds)
- Spoon or scoop (for serving)
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/3 cup sliced almonds
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
When preparing the Honey Almond Shmear, it is crucial to toast the sliced almonds in a small skillet to enhance their flavor and achieve the desired crunchiness. Use softened cream cheese at room temperature to ensure a smooth and creamy texture when blended with honey and vanilla extract. Measure ingredients precisely with measuring cups and spoons to maintain the right balance of sweetness and nuttiness. Stir gently using a spatula or mixer until the mixture becomes velvety and consistent. Your homemade Honey Almond Shmear will closely replicate Einstein Bros. Bagels' copycat menu, delivering a rich, nutty flavor and smooth spread perfect for any bagel.
Instructions
- Toast sliced almonds in a small skillet over medium heat until golden and fragrant, then let cool.
- In a mixing bowl, add softened cream cheese, honey, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
- Beat the mixture with a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Fold in cooled toasted almonds using a spatula.
- Transfer shmear to a serving dish with a spoon or scoop.
- Serve immediately, or chill for 30 minutes for a firmer texture.
Substitution
Honey Almond Shmear from Einstein Bros. Bagels copycat menu combines creamy softened cream cheese, sweet honey, and toasted sliced almonds for a rich, nutty spread perfect for bagels. If you don't have sliced almonds on hand, chopped walnuts or pecans can provide a similar crunchy texture and flavor profile. When toasting nuts, use a small skillet over medium heat and stir frequently to prevent burning and bring out their natural oils. You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey according to your taste preferences. To achieve a smoother spread, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to blend all ingredients thoroughly.
Tips
Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to ensure a smooth, creamy texture without lumps. Toast almonds carefully over medium heat to avoid burning and losing their nutty flavor. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer at medium speed to blend the honey, vanilla, and cream cheese evenly. You can chill the shmear for 30 minutes if you prefer a thicker spread, which also allows flavors to meld beautifully.
Nutritions
Honey Almond Shmear from Einstein Bros. Bagels provides a balance of creamy cream cheese with the natural sweetness of honey and the crunch of toasted almonds. This spread offers protein and healthy fats from the almonds, while honey contributes natural sugars for quick energy. Cream cheese adds calcium and vitamin A but also contains saturated fats, so enjoy Your shmear in moderation. It pairs well with freshly baked bagels to create a satisfying and flavorful snack or breakfast option.
Storage
Store your Honey Almond Shmear in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its creamy texture and fresh flavor for up to one week. Keep it chilled until ready to serve, as room temperature can cause the cream cheese to soften excessively and compromise the blend's consistency. Before serving, gently stir the shmear to redistribute any settled honey or nuts for optimal taste.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute maple syrup for honey to add a rich, caramel-like sweetness while keeping the creamy consistency. Try chopping or grinding the almonds coarsely to vary the crunch and distribute the nutty flavor more evenly throughout the shmear. To enhance flavor, consider adding a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg during mixing for a warm spice note. For a dairy-free version, use vegan cream cheese as the base without altering the toasting or mixing steps.
Allergies
Honey Almond Shmear from Einstein Bros. Bagels contains sliced almonds, which are tree nuts and a common allergen that can cause severe reactions in individuals with nut allergies. The product also includes honey and cream cheese, the latter of which contains dairy and may trigger allergic responses in those with milk allergies or lactose intolerance. Your awareness of these ingredients is crucial if you have food sensitivities or allergies.
Why this recipe?
The Honey Almond Shmear at Einstein Bros. Bagels offers a unique blend of creamy almond flavor with a touch of natural sweetness from honey, creating a delightful spread that enhances the taste of fresh bagels. It is packed with quality ingredients that provide a smooth texture and rich nutritional value, appealing to health-conscious customers. Making a copycat version allows you to enjoy this flavorful spread at home while controlling sweetness and quality. Your homemade Honey Almond Shmear can elevate any breakfast or snack with its satisfying and wholesome profile.