When the holiday season rolls around, one of the most delightful ways to greet your guests is with a mouth - watering spread of appetizers. In this article, we'll explore a scrumptious combination of mini bagels, homemade cream cheese, and fresh fruit that is sure to wake up your holiday guests' taste buds in the most delicious way possible. And we'll also find a creative use for the leftovers!

Let's start with the star of the show - the mini bagels. Mini bagels are not only cute but also incredibly versatile. You can find them in various flavors at your local grocery store, such as plain, sesame, poppy seed, or even whole wheat. Their small size makes them perfect for a quick bite, and they can be easily customized with different toppings. For a truly festive touch, you can arrange them on a large platter in a circular or star - shaped pattern.

Now, let's move on to the homemade cream cheese. Making your own cream cheese is easier than you might think, and it allows you to control the ingredients and flavors. To make a basic cream cheese, you'll need heavy cream, milk, and a bit of lemon juice or vinegar. Simply heat the cream and milk in a saucepan over medium - low heat until it reaches about 180°F. Then, remove it from the heat and stir in the lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for a few minutes until it curdles. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth - lined colander and let it drain for a few hours in the refrigerator. Voila! You have your own homemade cream cheese.

But why stop at basic cream cheese? For the holidays, you can get creative and make a Pumpkin Cream Cheese Spread. This is a seasonal twist that combines the rich, creamy texture of cream cheese with the warm, spicy flavors of pumpkin. To make the Pumpkin Cream Cheese Spread, you'll need your homemade cream cheese, canned pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Mix all the ingredients together in a bowl until well - combined. The result is a smooth, flavorful spread that pairs perfectly with the mini bagels.

Next, it's time to add the fresh fruit. A colorful assortment of fruits not only adds a pop of color to your appetizer spread but also provides a refreshing contrast to the rich cream cheese. You can choose from a variety of fruits, such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, kiwis, and bananas. Wash and slice the fruits and arrange them around the bagels and cream cheese on the platter. The bright colors of the fruits will make your spread look even more inviting.

As your guests arrive, they'll be greeted with this beautiful and delicious spread. They can take a mini bagel, spread some of the Pumpkin Cream Cheese Spread on it, and top it with a piece of fruit. The combination of the soft bagel, creamy spread, and fresh fruit is a match made in heaven. It's a light yet satisfying appetizer that will set the tone for a wonderful holiday gathering.

Now, what about the leftovers? Don't let that delicious Pumpkin Cream Cheese Spread go to waste. The next day, you can stir it into your oatmeal for a decadent and seasonal breakfast. Oatmeal is a healthy and filling breakfast option, and adding the Pumpkin Cream Cheese Spread takes it to a whole new level. The creamy spread will add a rich, sweet flavor to the oatmeal, and the spices will give it a warm, comforting taste. Simply cook your oatmeal as usual, and then stir in a few spoonfuls of the leftover spread. You can also top it with some more fresh fruit for an extra burst of flavor.

In conclusion, this combination of mini bagels, homemade cream cheese, and fruit is a must - try for your holiday gatherings. It's easy to make, looks beautiful, and tastes amazing. And with the creative use of leftovers, you can enjoy the flavors of the holidays for days to come. So, the next time you're planning a holiday party, don't forget to include this delicious appetizer spread on your menu.