Cream Cheese Stuffed Garlic Bagels Recipe

Imagine everything you love about a good bagel — chewy, warm, golden, irresistible — then elevate it with a creamy, garlicky surprise in every bite. That’s exactly what you get with my Cream Cheese Stuffed Garlic Bagels Recipe. These homemade beauties are the ultimate comfort food, and you won’t believe how simple they are to prepare. With just a handful of pantry staples, you’ll enjoy bagels that are pillowy on the inside, golden and fragrant on the outside, and bursting with velvety cream cheese at the center. This recipe is a game-changer for breakfast, brunch, or as a dazzling snack everyone will crave.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

This irresistible recipe comes together with ingredients you already know and love. Each component is essential in creating the perfect flavor, soft texture, and golden finish that makes these bagels so special.

• All-purpose flour: The foundation for a soft, yet sturdy dough that will hold your creamy center.
• Baking powder: Gives the bagel dough just the right lift and lightness.
• Salt: Balances flavors and brings out all the savory notes.
• Plain Greek yogurt: Adds tang, moisture, and helps make the dough tender — plus, a little boost of protein.
• Cream cheese: Choose full-fat for ultra-creamy results; this is the secret pocket of goodness inside each bagel.
• Butter (melted): Brushed on top for rich flavor and to help the herbs and garlic stick.
• Garlic powder: Delivers bold garlic flavor without any fuss.
• Dried parsley: For a touch of color and fresh herb taste.
• Onion powder: Adds depth and savory umami that pairs perfectly with garlic.
• Italian seasoning: Offers an aromatic, herby finish that makes these bagels completely irresistible.

How to Make Cream Cheese Stuffed Garlic Bagels Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Tools and Preheat

Start by setting yourself up for success. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your bagels won’t stick and get perfectly golden all around, making cleanup a breeze, too.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Give it a quick whisk or stir to evenly distribute everything — this simple step guarantees that each bite is beautifully balanced and each bagel rises as it should.

Step 3: Add Greek Yogurt and Form the Dough

Spoon in the Greek yogurt and stir until a shaggy dough begins to form. Don’t worry if it looks a little messy at first; as you mix, the yogurt will help pull the dough together. You’re looking for a soft (but not sticky) texture that’s easy to handle.

Step 4: Knead for Smoothness

Lightly flour your countertop, then turn out the dough and knead it for 2 to 3 minutes. You’ll feel it transform from a rough mix into a smooth, elastic ball ready to shape. This step gives your bagels their classic chewy bite!

Step 5: Portion and Fill with Cream Cheese

Divide the dough into 6 equal pieces. Flatten each into a disk, then place a cube of cream cheese in the center. Carefully fold the dough up around the cream cheese, pinching the edges to seal tightly so that creamy filling doesn’t escape in the oven.

Step 6: Shape the Bagels

Take each filled dough ball and gently poke a hole through the center with your finger. Use your fingers to carefully stretch and shape into a classic bagel ring. It’s a hands-on moment — don’t stress about perfection, the rustic look is part of their charm!

Step 7: Make the Garlic Butter Topping

Combine melted butter, garlic powder, dried parsley, onion powder, and Italian seasoning in a small bowl. Brush the tops of the bagels generously. This buttery, herby layer is what makes the Cream Cheese Stuffed Garlic Bagels Recipe truly unforgettable.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden

Place your bagels on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 22 to 25 minutes, or until they’re puffed and perfectly golden brown. As they bake, your kitchen will fill with the impossible-to-resist aroma of fresh bread and garlic.

Step 9: Cool Slightly and Enjoy!

Let your bagels cool just enough to handle — the cream cheese center will be gorgeously melty. Serve them warm for maximum enjoyment, when the filling is creamy and the crust is still crisp.

How to Serve Cream Cheese Stuffed Garlic Bagels Recipe

Garnishes

These bagels beg for a finishing touch! Sprinkle on a bit of extra dried parsley, cracked black pepper, or flaky sea salt as soon as they come out of the oven. If you’re feeling daring, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a gentle kick that pairs perfectly with that creamy filling.

Side Dishes

The Cream Cheese Stuffed Garlic Bagels Recipe is hearty enough to stand alone, but it also shines alongside scrambled eggs, a crisp garden salad, or even a simple bowl of soup. For brunch spreads, include fresh fruit, smoked salmon, or avocado slices to complement their savory depth.

Creative Ways to Present

For an extra showstopping effect, serve the bagels warm in a bread basket, tucked in a cloth napkin. Or, slice them open and fill with greens or more veggies for a playful, over-the-top sandwich. Small bagel bites (made by dividing the dough smaller) make fantastic party finger food or snacks.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you somehow have leftovers, store your bagels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cream cheese center keeps them soft and flavorful, and they’ll reheat beautifully for busy mornings.

Freezing

Want to keep a stash ready for future cravings? Once completely cooled, tightly wrap each bagel in plastic wrap and tuck into a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to two months — just be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To revive that just-baked texture, pop refrigerated or thawed bagels into a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 7 to 10 minutes, or use an air fryer for a quick fix. Microwaving works, but you’ll get the best crust when you warm them in the oven.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Breakfast

Absolutely! Greek yogurt works best for its thickness and tang, but regular plain yogurt is an option — just know the dough may be a touch stickier, so add a sprinkle more flour if needed.

What can I add to make these bagels even more flavorful?

Feel free to get creative! Mix shredded cheese, chives, or sun-dried tomatoes into the dough for bursts of extra flavor. You can also swap or blend seasonings in the butter topping according to your taste.

Do I need a stand mixer for this recipe?

Not at all! This Cream Cheese Stuffed Garlic Bagels Recipe was designed with simplicity in mind. All you need is a mixing bowl and a sturdy spoon, plus your own two hands for kneading.

Is it possible to make these gluten free?

Yes, just substitute a good quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of the regular flour. Keep an eye on dough texture — you might need a bit more or less yogurt, depending on the blend you use.

My filling leaked out of some bagels. What happened?

It’s important to pinch the seams really well when wrapping the cream cheese, ensuring no gaps remain. If a little cheesy goodness escapes, don’t worry — the bagels will still be delicious and you’ll have extra crispy bits to enjoy!

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a homemade treat that never fails to impress, you absolutely have to try this Cream Cheese Stuffed Garlic Bagels Recipe. Every bite is warm, cheesy, and packed with flavor — the kind of thing you’ll want to make again and again. Grab your ingredients, invite a friend, and get ready for your new favorite breakfast ritual!

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