These Cream Cheese Stuffed Garlic Bagels are a tasty treat! With a fluffy bagel filled with creamy cheese and topped with garlic, they’re a yummy breakfast or snack.
Honestly, who can resist a bagel that’s both cheesy and garlicky? I can’t! I love enjoying them warm, and sometimes I even add a sprinkle of herbs on top for extra flavor!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Active Dry Yeast: This is essential for the dough to rise. If you have instant yeast, you can use it instead. Just mix it directly with the flour, skipping the activation step.
All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of this recipe. You can use bread flour for a chewier texture, or whole wheat flour for a healthier option, but note that you might need a bit more liquid.
Cream Cheese: I love the classic flavor of regular cream cheese, but you can use flavored varieties like herb or chive if you’re feeling adventurous. Vegan cream cheese works too!
Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic enhances the flavor beautifully. If you must, substitute with garlic powder, but start with half the amount as it’s stronger.
Herbs: Fresh parsley adds a great touch! Substitute with basil or chives if parsley isn’t available. Dried herbs can work too; just reduce the amount since they’re more concentrated.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Bagel Texture?
The key to a chewy, shiny bagel comes from the boiling step. Boiling the bagels helps achieve that signature texture and creates a barrier that keeps the filling nice and moist. Here’s how to do it right:
- After shaping the bagels, allow them to sit for a second rise. This develops flavor and texture.
- Use a large pot so the bagels have room to float. Add baking soda to the boiling water—it gives a nice color and enhances the flavor.
- Boil each bagel for 1 minute on each side. Make sure to remove them carefully with a slotted spoon to avoid tearing.
These techniques are what make homemade bagels a fun and rewarding project. Enjoy your baking!
How to Make Cream Cheese Stuffed Garlic Bagels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bagels:
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 ½ tsp salt
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
For Boiling and Topping:
- Water and 2 tbsp baking soda (for boiling)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Optional: 1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take approximately 2 hours from start to finish. This includes about 15 minutes for preparation, 90 minutes for rising (including both the first and second rise), and about 20 minutes for boiling and baking. So, get ready for some fun in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
In a medium bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, until it becomes frothy. This means your yeast is working and ready to go!
2. Make the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, mix together the flour and salt. Once your yeast is activated, add the yeast mixture to the flour and combine until a dough starts to form.
3. Knead the Dough:
Lightly flour your workspace and knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.
4. First Rise:
Place the dough into a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size. This is when the magic happens!
5. Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling:
In another bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with the minced garlic, chopped parsley, and dried oregano until everything is well combined. Set this aside for later.
6. Form the Bagels:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and prep for stuffing!
7. Stuff the Bagels:
Flatten each dough ball into a disc. Place 1-2 tablespoons of the cream cheese mixture in the center, then fold the dough over the filling and pinch to seal it tightly. Shape the stuffed dough into a ring (bagel shape) by poking a hole in the center and stretching it gently.
8. Second Rise:
Arrange the formed bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover them with a cloth, and let them rise for another 20-30 minutes. They should get a bit puffy.
9. Boil the Bagels:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the baking soda. Carefully boil the bagels, 2-3 at a time, for about 1 minute on each side. Remove them with a slotted spoon and place them back on the baking sheet.
10. Prepare the Garlic Topping:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, and finely chopped parsley. This will give the bagels a delicious flavor boost!
11. Top the Bagels:
Brush the boiled bagels with the garlic olive oil mixture. If you like, sprinkle bits of the cream cheese filling on top and add some grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
12. Bake:
Place the bagels in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown. They smell wonderful as they bake!
13. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, allow the bagels to cool slightly on a wire rack. Then, enjoy them warm, perhaps with a bit of extra cream cheese on the side!
Enjoy your delicious homemade Cream Cheese Stuffed Garlic Bagels!
Can I Use Different Fillings for the Bagels?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with the fillings. You can use herbs, sun-dried tomatoes, or even different types of cheese like feta or goat cheese. Just ensure any filling you use is not too watery to avoid soggy bagels.
What Can I Substitute for Active Dry Yeast?
If you don’t have active dry yeast, you can use instant yeast instead. You can add it directly to your dry ingredients without needing to activate it first. Just keep the same amount—2 ¼ tsp or 1 packet!
How Should I Store Leftover Bagels?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap them in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag to freeze. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy them again!
Can I Make the Dough Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the dough and let it rise, then punch it down and refrigerate it before shaping the bagels. When you’re ready to bake, just let it come to room temperature before shaping and continuing with the recipe.