Meghan Markle faced a wave of online criticism after sharing her cream cheese bagel recipe, with some viewers expressing surprise at her approach. The video, posted on the As Ever Instagram page, showed the Duchess preparing a breakfast spread using her brand’s $15 (£11) flower sprinkles, cream cheese, sliced strawberries, and jam.
In the clip, Meghan scoops cream cheese onto a plate, tops it with thinly sliced strawberries and edible flower petals for what she described as “surprise and delight,” then adds four untoasted bagel slices. She finishes by adding a touch of her $12 (£9) jam, set to the soundtrack of Da Do Ron Ron by The Crystals. The caption read:
“Strawberry! One of Oprah’s favourite things. Don’t miss out.”
Some social-media users questioned the method, with comments noting that the presentation felt unconventional and that certain cooking steps — such as toasting the bagels — had been skipped. One user wrote that the styling made the dish look “more decorative than practical,” while another remarked that the approach seemed “very Instagram-focused.”
Others pointed out that Meghan often wears jewellery when preparing food, something some viewers felt didn’t align with standard kitchen etiquette. In the video, she appears wearing gold rings, a bracelet and a bangle as she assembles the dish.
Despite the online debate, the post generated significant attention for As Ever’s Christmas collection and drew interest from followers curious about the brand’s edible floral toppings and styling ideas.