If you are searching for a delightful breakfast or snack that combines soft, chewy bagels with garlicky, creamy goodness then this Cream Cheese Stuffed Garlic Bagels Recipe will absolutely steal your heart. Imagine biting into a perfectly baked bagel that hides a luscious cream cheese and garlic filling, bursting with flavor in every mouthful. This recipe brings together simple pantry staples in a fun and creative way to help you elevate your homemade bagels to a whole new level of deliciousness. Whether you are a bagel fanatic or just love a good savory treat, these stuffed garlic bagels are a must-try that will make your kitchen smell amazing and your taste buds dance.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making these heavenly stuffed bagels. Each element plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect texture, flavor, and aroma that make this bagel recipe so irresistible.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for your dough, providing structure and chewiness.
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar: Feeds the yeast to help your dough rise beautifully.
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons): Essential for that classic airy bagel texture.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Balances flavors and strengthens the dough.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds moisture and richness to the dough.
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C): Activates the yeast and brings the dough together.
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional): Sweetens the boiling water to create a shiny crust.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: The star of the stuffing, providing a smooth, tangy center.
- 1 tablespoon fresh garlic, minced: Packs the bagels with a savory punch inside and out.
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped (optional): Adds a subtle oniony brightness to your filling.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the garlic flavor in the cream cheese filling.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Seasons the cream cheese mixture perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted: Brushed on top for golden, flavorful crusts.
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced: Mixed with melted butter to infuse the bagel crust with garlic goodness.
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley (optional): Gives a hint of herbal freshness on the surface.
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Adds a cheesy, savory finish to your baked bagels.
How to Make Cream Cheese Stuffed Garlic Bagels Recipe
Step 1: Make the Dough
Begin by combining warm water with sugar and yeast in a large bowl, letting it sit until frothy which means your yeast is active and ready to work its magic. Then add the flour and salt, stirring together until a shaggy dough forms. Knead the dough for about 8 to 10 minutes until it feels smooth and elastic—this kneading develops the gluten that will give your bagels that perfect chewy texture. Once kneaded, place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size, about an hour.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
While your dough is rising, mix the softened cream cheese with fresh minced garlic, chopped chives, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt in a medium bowl. Stir everything until it’s creamy and well combined. This filling is the heart of your Cream Cheese Stuffed Garlic Bagels Recipe, delivering that irresistible garlicky cream cheese surprise inside each bagel.
Step 3: Shape the Bagels
Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release any trapped air. Divide the dough into 8 equal portions and roll each into a ball. Using your finger, poke a hole through the center of each ball and stretch it gently to form a traditional bagel shape. Now for the fun part—add a generous spoonful of your cream cheese filling into the hole of each bagel and carefully seal the edges around the filling to keep it enclosed. This step ensures every bite has a creamy center bursting with flavor.
Step 4: Boil the Bagels
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and stir in a tablespoon of honey to sweeten the water, which helps create a shiny, golden crust on your bagels. Carefully drop a few bagels at a time into the boiling water and boil each side for 1 to 2 minutes. Boiling is what gives bagels their iconic chewy exterior and firm texture, so don’t skip this important step. Remove the bagels with a slotted spoon and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet to drain and dry.
Step 5: Bake the Bagels
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the bagels generously with a mixture of melted butter and minced garlic, and if you like, sprinkle on dried parsley and Parmesan cheese for extra flavor and a beautiful finish. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the bagels turn a gorgeous golden brown. Your kitchen will fill with the most wonderful aroma of baked garlic, butter, and fresh bread while they cook.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Allow the bagels to cool just slightly because you want to enjoy them warm enough for that cheesy filling to be delightfully soft and melty. These Cream Cheese Stuffed Garlic Bagels Recipe treats are magnificent fresh out of the oven and perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any time you crave a savory snack. Serve them with extra cream cheese, or simply enjoy them as is—the creamy garlic filling speaks for itself.
How to Serve Cream Cheese Stuffed Garlic Bagels Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a little flair can take these bagels from fantastic to unforgettable. Sprinkle freshly chopped herbs like parsley or chives on top for a burst of color and freshness. A light dusting of cracked black pepper or a handful of toasted sesame seeds can add texture and visual appeal. Whether you keep it simple or garnish extravagantly, these little touches can complement the creamy garlic flavor perfectly.
Side Dishes
Pair these garlic stuffed bagels with fresh, crisp side salads to contrast the richness of the cream cheese filling. A bright tomato and cucumber salad with a lemon vinaigrette or a crunchy coleslaw would balance the savory notes nicely. Additionally, a bowl of soup like tomato basil or butternut squash is a lovely companion for a more substantial meal that feels comforting and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Think outside the box and slice these bagels in half to create mini sandwiches filled with smoked salmon, slices of avocado, or crispy bacon. For a party, cut the bagels into bite-sized pieces and serve with toothpicks alongside flavored cream cheese spreads or dips. Turning this Cream Cheese Stuffed Garlic Bagels Recipe into finger food or sandwich bases opens up so many fun and tasty possibilities.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare because they’re so good), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to keep their softness. For longer storage, refrigerate them but be aware they may firm up slightly and lose some chewiness. Wrapping each bagel individually in plastic wrap helps retain moisture.
Freezing
To freeze, allow the bagels to cool completely, then wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months. When you want to enjoy one, thaw it at room temperature or pop it straight in the oven or toaster oven for a few minutes to regain that fresh-baked warmth and texture.
Reheating
Reheating bagels gently is key to maintaining their wonderful texture. Warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving for long periods, as it can make the bagels chewy or rubbery. A toaster oven also works beautifully for a quick warm-up and a bit of crispness on the outside.
FAQs
Can I use flavored cream cheese for the filling?
Absolutely! Using flavored cream cheese like herb and garlic or chive varieties can enhance the bagels’ taste even more, just adjust the added garlic and herbs accordingly to avoid overpowering flavors.
Is it necessary to boil bagels before baking?
Yes, boiling is an essential step for authentic bagels. It sets the crust and creates the chewy texture that distinguishes bagels from regular bread, especially for this Cream Cheese Stuffed Garlic Bagels Recipe.
Can I make these bagels in advance for a party?
Definitely. You can prepare the bagels ahead of time and freeze them after baking. Reheat just before serving so they taste fresh and warm. They also stay delicious if prepared the day before and stored properly.
What if I don’t have fresh garlic?
Minced garlic powder can be a good substitute, but fresh garlic provides that bright, pungent flavor that makes this recipe shine. If you must use powder, increase the quantity slightly and consider adding a little garlic oil for extra aroma.
Can these bagels be made gluten-free?
This recipe relies on gluten for structure and texture, so substitutions can be challenging. However, experimenting with a gluten-free flour blend designed for yeast breads might work, but expect a different texture. Consider this a fun baking adventure if gluten-free is a must!
Final Thoughts
You really cannot go wrong with this Cream Cheese Stuffed Garlic Bagels Recipe. It’s a comforting, flavorful treat that’s surprisingly simple to make and guaranteed to impress anyone lucky enough to taste your kitchen creation. From the aromatic garlic-infused filling to the perfectly chewy bagel exterior, these bagels bring warmth and joy to any table. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and dive into making these delicious stuffed bagels—you won’t be disappointed!
Print
Cream Cheese Stuffed Garlic Bagels Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 bagels 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious homemade cream cheese stuffed garlic bagels that combine soft, chewy bagels with a rich and flavorful garlic cream cheese filling. These bagels are boiled for the perfect texture and baked to a golden finish, making them an irresistible savory treat perfect for breakfast or snacks.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for sweetness)
Cream Cheese Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon fresh garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped (optional)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
Topping
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley (optional)
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Make the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir and let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. Add flour and salt, stir to form dough, then knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Lightly oil a bowl, place the dough inside, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, mix softened cream cheese with minced garlic, chives (if using), garlic powder, and salt. Stir until smooth and well combined. Set aside.
- Shape the Bagels: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). After dough has risen, punch it down and divide into 8 equal portions. Roll each into a ball, then poke a hole in the center with your finger, stretching gently to form a bagel shape. Fill each center hole with a spoonful of cream cheese mixture, sealing the dough around the filling completely.
- Boil the Bagels: Bring a large pot of water to a boil, adding 1 tablespoon of honey if using. Carefully drop 2-3 bagels at a time into the boiling water. Boil for 1-2 minutes per side. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake the Bagels: Brush each bagel with the melted butter mixed with minced garlic, and sprinkle dried parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve & Enjoy: Allow bagels to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, fresh out of the oven, optionally with extra cream cheese or your favorite spread.
Notes
- Ensure the water is warm, not hot, when activating yeast to avoid killing it.
- Sealing the cream cheese properly inside the bagel prevents leaks during boiling and baking.
- Boiling bagels briefly before baking gives them their classic chewy texture.
- You can omit honey if you prefer less sweetness.
- Use fresh garlic for a stronger flavor in the filling and topping.
- Let bagels cool slightly before serving to allow filling to set.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
