These Cream Cheese Stuffed Garlic Bagels are soft and chewy with a yummy garlic flavor. Each bite has a creamy surprise that makes them extra special!
Who can resist a delicious bagel stuffed with cream cheese? I love making these for brunch. They disappear faster than you can say “more, please!” 🥯
Making them is so easy—just bake, stuff, and enjoy. Perfect for a cozy morning or a tasty snack anytime! Give it a try; you won’t regret it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bagels: Plain bagels work best, but feel free to get creative! You could try everything bagels for an extra savory touch or even whole wheat bagels for a healthier choice.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese is key for that smooth texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Neufchâtel cheese or even a dairy-free cream cheese substitute.
Garlic: Fresh garlic delivers the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work, but I recommend using fresh for that aromatic boost.
Fresh Parsley: Parsley adds freshness. You can substitute it with chives or basil if you prefer, or even just leave it out if you’re not a fan of herbs!
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: These are optional for heat. If you’re looking for something spicier, consider using cayenne pepper instead, or skip it entirely for a milder flavor.
How Do You Cut the Bagels Without Slicing Them Through?
Cutting bagels for stuffing can be tricky, but here’s an easy approach! Start by holding the bagel securely. Use a sharp knife to slice horizontally, but stop just before cutting all the way through. This creates a pocket.
- Place the bagel flat side down on a cutting board.
- Slice about three-quarters of the way through the middle.
- Gently open the bagel; it should stay connected at the bottom, making it perfect for stuffing.
Taking your time with this will help you avoid tearing the bagel, which can happen if you rush!
How to Make Cream Cheese Stuffed Garlic Bagels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bagels:
- 4 plain bagels
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 1 cup cream cheese (softened)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3 tablespoons butter (melted)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (finely chopped)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for extra spice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and a quick 12-15 minutes to bake, making it perfect for a delightful breakfast or snack in less than 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures that your bagels will bake evenly and get that lovely golden brown color.
2. Prepare the Bagels:
Take each bagel and carefully cut them horizontally almost all the way through. You want to create a pocket but keep the bottom connected. Gently open each bagel to get it ready for stuffing.
3. Stuff with Cream Cheese:
Spread about 2-3 tablespoons of softened cream cheese inside each bagel pocket. Make sure to close the bagel gently afterward, so the filling stays inside.
4. Mix the Garlic Butter:
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, olive oil, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt. If you like a little heat, feel free to add the crushed red pepper flakes. Stir everything together until well blended!
5. Brush the Bagels:
Now, it’s time to brush the garlic butter mixture generously on top of each bagel. Ensure you get some into the crevices for extra flavor!
6. Bake the Bagels:
Place the prepared bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Put them in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes or until they are toasted and golden brown.
7. Optional Broiling Step:
If you want a slightly charred garlic flavor, you can broil the bagels for an additional 1-2 minutes. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning!
8. Cool and Garnish:
Once done, remove the bagels from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. For a nice touch, you can garnish with some extra fresh parsley if you like!
9. Enjoy!
Serve your warm, creamy, and garlicky stuffed bagels right away, and enjoy this tasty treat!
Can I Use Different Types of Bagels?
Absolutely! While plain bagels are recommended for this recipe, you can experiment with everything bagels for added flavor or even whole wheat bagels for a healthier option.
What Can I Use Instead of Fresh Garlic?
If you don’t have fresh garlic on hand, garlic powder can be used as a substitute. Use about 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove of fresh garlic needed.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Bagels?
Leftover stuffed bagels can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven for a few minutes to bring back their crispiness.
Can I Make the Filling Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the cream cheese filling in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just give it a good stir before using it to ensure it’s creamy and spreadable!
