the Secret Ingredient In New York’s Cream Cheese
New York City has long been famous for its bagels. Fluffy, yet with the right amount of chew, they are the perfect vehicle for a generous spread of the city’s other great culinary claim to fame: cream cheese. From a simple schmear to a dollop mixed with lox or flavored with scallions, New York cream cheese has a unique texture that sets it apart from its counterparts across the globe. Ever wondered what the secret behind this texture is? Brace yourselves, because the answer might surprise you!
The secret ingredient that makes New York’s cream cheese stand-out is, of all things, seltzer water. Yes, you read that right! It turns out that a dash of carbonated water is the special touch that gives the cream cheese its undeniably perfect texture. A texture that is at once rich and creamy, ye light and fluffy.
You may be wondering: can I recreate this at home? The answer is, absolutely! All you need is some store bough cream cheese and seltzer. Add a splash of seltzer water and mix them together. We can’t tell you exactly how much to add - you’ll have to experiment with proportions. Just remember, it’s easier to add than remove!
Want to learn more of the secrets to NYC’s bagel greatness? Join one of our NYC Bagel Tours or sign up for a Bagel Baking Workshop! They’re fantastic ways to learn the tips and tricks to elevate your bagel game. Click here to learn more and book your spot today!