Throw a bagel sandwich brunch!

1 Buy your bagels!

The morning of your party, buy a mix of the most popular flavors: plain, everything, sesame, poppy seed and cinnamon-raisin. Stash bagels in a paper bag to keep them fresh, then use a serrated knife to slice them in half just before guests arrive. Plug in your toaster near the buffet for anyone who prefers a toasted bagel.

2 Make gourmet cream cheese!

You can’t have bagels without cream cheese! Offer guests a choice of plain, plus one or two flavored versions—known as “schmears” in deli slang. The technique is easy: Stir 2 Tbs. of your choice of mix-ins into 8 oz. of whipped cream cheese, which is easier to work with than block cream cheese, and add a splash of heavy cream or milk to bind it. Popular mix-ins include chopped scallions (green parts only), snipped chives, chopped olives and a combo of dried cranberries and toasted walnuts. Serve chilled.

3 Offer favorite brunch drinks!

Strong black coffee with milk and sugar on the side, a pitcher of orange juice and a round of Bloody Marys will complement your savory sandwiches.

4 Set out fabulous fixin’s!

Tempt guests with everything they need to build a hearty bagel sandwich! Start with proteins like smoked salmon, ham and scrambled or sliced hard-boiled eggs. Add a few types of cheese and plenty of raw veggies, such as cherry tomatoes, red onions, radishes and lettuce. Finally, offer capers, olives and hot sauce for zip!

5 Enjoy a masterpiece!

Have fun coming up with tasty sandwiches, like this garden-fresh combo of chive cream cheese, radish and cucumber!