FOOD NEWS
The Secret To Restaurant-Quality Cream Cheese Is A Bit Of Seltzer
By Meaghan Cameron
In a TikTok video by Sam Silverman, also known as the "Bagel Ambassador," viewers learn New York City's secret of how to make delicious, spreadable cream cheese.
The video shows cream cheese mixed with scallions and a few seltzer splashes from a concealed bottle. The seltzer creates a fluffy consistency that's lighter in appearance.
A narration explains that seltzer water contributes to the airy texture that graces many NYC bagels, remarking, "I consistently see it in the back of all the best bagel shops."
To recreate this hack, use room-temperature cream cheese to avoid difficult mixing. Opt for a spacious bowl to prevent spills as you add the seltzer.
You could use a spoon or your hands to mix the cream cheese, but we recommend using a stand mixer with a paddle attachment. Add the seltzer gradually, mixing before each addition.
If you enjoy whipped cream cheese, this approach closely resembles its indulgent texture and enables you to tailor the level of fluffiness according to your liking.
This hack increases the volume of your cream cheese, allowing you to use less on the bagel. However, excessive use of seltzer can lead to a runny, liquid texture.