These garlic bagels are a twist on your breakfast favorite! Stuffed with creamy cheese, they’re soft on the inside and crispy on the outside. Perfect for a morning treat!
Honestly, who can resist a bagel that’s filled with cream cheese? I love to enjoy mine warm, straight from the oven. Just watch out, they disappear fast! 😂
Ingredients & Substitutions
Bagels: Plain bagels work best, but you can mix it up with everything bagels for extra flavors. If bagels are not available, you can use pita bread or English muffins as a fun alternative.
Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for a richer taste. If you’re looking for a lighter option, whipped cream cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese can be great substitutes too.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings a punch of flavor. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder can substitute but keep it light given you already use garlic powder in the filling.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds brightness, but if you don’t have it, dried parsley works in a pinch. Other herbs like chives or dill could also bring a nice flavor twist.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice touch. Feel free to use Pecorino Romano, or even a mix of your favorite hard cheeses if you’re out of Parmesan.
Red Pepper Flakes: These are optional for heat. If you want more spice, you can use cayenne pepper, or if you prefer milder flavors, just skip it altogether.
How Do You Fill the Bagels Without Making a Mess?
Filling bagels can be tricky! Here’s how to make it easy and tidy.
- Make sure to cut deep slits or an “X” that goes ¾ of the way through the bagel, leaving the bottom intact.
- Use a spoon to fill the slits with the cream cheese mixture. Press it lightly to ensure it stays put.
- Coat the outer edges with melted butter and Parmesan to get a nice, tasty crust while baking.
By carefully cutting and filling, you can enjoy your bagels without the cream cheese spilling out!
How to Make Cream Cheese Stuffed Garlic Bagels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Bagels:
- 4 plain bagels
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (or 1 tbsp dried parsley)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt to taste
- Optional: crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
For the Topping:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and another 15-20 minutes to bake. You’ll be enjoying your warm, cheesy garlic bagels in less than 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling:
In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix until everything is well blended. If you love heat, feel free to stir in some crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick!
3. Prepare the Bagels:
Take each bagel and carefully cut a deep “X” or several slits on the top. Be careful not to cut all the way through. Slightly pull open the slits to create enough space for the filling.
4. Fill the Bagels:
Spoon the creamy filling generously into each slit of the bagels. Press down gently so the filling stays inside. The more stuffing, the better!
5. Add the Topping:
In another small bowl, mix the melted butter and grated Parmesan cheese. Use a brush to coat the tops of the filled bagels with this mixture, making sure to brush a little onto the cream cheese edges for even more flavor.
6. Bake the Bagels:
Place the filled bagels on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn golden brown and the cream cheese starts to bubble slightly.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the bagels from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. If you’d like, garnish with additional chopped parsley for a fresh pop of color.
8. Enjoy Your Creations:
Dig into your warm, garlic-infused cream cheese stuffed bagels. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a tasty snack!
Can I Use Different Types of Bagels?
Absolutely! While plain bagels work best, feel free to experiment with everything bagels or even whole wheat ones for a healthier option. They’ll give a unique flavor twist to your stuffed bagels!
How Can I Make the Filling Cream Cheese Lighter?
If you want a lighter version, consider using whipped cream cheese or a low-fat cream cheese substitute. You can also mix in some Greek yogurt for added creaminess without the extra calories!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover stuffed bagels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for that freshly baked feel!
Can I Make These Bagels in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cream cheese filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just fill the bagels and bake them when you’re ready to serve!
