These Cream Cheese Stuffed Garlic Bagels are a tasty twist on a classic favorite! Soft bagels filled with creamy cheese and topped with delicious garlic flavor make them hard to resist.
Nothing beats the smell of fresh bagels baking in the oven! I love enjoying them warm, maybe with a little extra cream cheese on top. They are perfect for breakfast or a snack! 🥯😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Plain Bagels: The base of this recipe, use any type of plain bagels. If you’re feeling adventurous, everything bagels add more flavor! Whole wheat bagels can also be a healthier choice.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese is perfect for easy spreading. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider Greek yogurt or low-fat cream cheese. Vegan cream cheese is great if you’re dairy-free!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a nice punch to the cream cheese. If you’re short on fresh garlic, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder can substitute for each clove, but nothing beats the fresh flavor.
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness. You could also use olive oil or margarine if you want a dairy-free option.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a lovely savory flavor. If you’re out, try Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a vegan substitute!
How Do You Get the Perfect Stuffed Bagel?
Stuffing the bagels might seem tricky, but it’s all about making a good pocket and using the right technique. Start by slicing your bagels carefully; you want to create a pocket without cutting all the way through.
- Make a shallow cut through the middle, like a book opening, ensuring the edges stay intact.
- Generously stuff the cream cheese mixture. Press it in well so it doesn’t fall out during baking.
- Don’t rush! Be sure to distribute your filling evenly between the bagels.
This way, you’ll get a delightful bite of flavor in every mouthful. Happy cooking!
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
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Topping:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to bake, so you can enjoy your bagels in just about 30-35 minutes! Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your bagels bake evenly and come out warm and delicious.
2. Prepare the Bagels:
Take your plain bagels and slice them horizontally but not all the way through. You want to create a pocket where you can stuff in all that tasty cream cheese mixture.
3. Mix the Cream Cheese Filling:
In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, minced garlic, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Use a fork or spatula to mix everything together until it’s well combined and creamy.
4. Stuff the Bagels:
Generously stuff the cream cheese mixture into the cuts of each bagel. Don’t be shy; make sure each bagel has a good amount of filling for that amazing flavor!
5. Prepare for Baking:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Place your stuffed bagels on the sheet, cut side up, ready for the oven.
6. Add Butter and Toppings:
Brush the tops of the bagels with the melted butter to make them golden and flavorful. Then, sprinkle the chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the tops for that extra touch of goodness.
7. Bake the Bagels:
Put the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the tops are golden and the filling is warmed through.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once done, remove the bagels from the oven and let them cool slightly. This will make them easier to handle. Then, they’re ready to serve and enjoy!
Enjoy these warm, garlic-infused cream cheese stuffed bagels as a delightful snack or breakfast option!
Can I Use Different Types of Bagels?
Absolutely! While plain bagels are perfect for this recipe, you can use any flavor, such as everything bagels or garlic bagels, to enhance the taste even further. Just keep in mind that flavored bagels can change the overall flavor profile.
Can I Make These Bagels Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the cream cheese mixture and stuff the bagels up to a day in advance. Just cover them tightly and store them in the fridge. Bake them right before serving for the best texture.
How Should I Store Leftover Stuffed Bagels?
Store leftover stuffed bagels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until they’re warm and the topping is crispy again.
Is There a Vegan Substitute for Cream Cheese?
Yes, you can use vegan cream cheese or a nut-based spread as a substitute for regular cream cheese. This will ensure a creamy texture without any dairy, perfect for a vegan version of the dish!
