What is a common use for cream cheese?

Cream cheese is widely recognized for its creamy texture and mild flavor, making it an ideal choice for spreading on bagels. This use is especially popular in breakfast and brunch settings, where the softness of cream cheese complements the chewy texture of bagels. It can be enjoyed plain or flavored, enhancing the overall dining experience.

In contrast, while cream cheese can certainly play a role in cooking, baking, or making ice cream, these applications are generally less common or involve different types of preparation. The primary and most popular use highlighted in the context of the options is indeed its role as a spread on bagels.