Garlic Cream Cheese Bagels
Garlic Cream Cheese Bagels are the ultimate blend of savory garlic goodness and creamy richness, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to jazz up your breakfast, impress your guests at brunch, or satisfy a late-night craving, these bagels deliver a flavor punch that’s hard to resist. With a soft cream cheese filling and a tantalizing garlic butter topping, you’re in for a delightful culinary experience that feels both indulgent and comforting.
Why you’ll love this dish
This recipe is not just about bagels; it’s about creating a delicious experience that brings people together. Here are a few reasons why you should whip up a batch of Garlic Cream Cheese Bagels:
- Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just around 15 minutes and a baking time that hardly interrupts your day, these bagels are perfect for busy mornings or spontaneous get-togethers.
- Budget-Friendly: Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, making this a budget-conscious choice that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
- Family Approved: Kids and adults alike will relish the creamy, garlicky goodness, making it a great dish for family gatherings.
- Versatility: Perfect for brunch, an afternoon snack, or even as party appetizers, these bagels shine in any setting.
"These Garlic Cream Cheese Bagels are now a staple in our house! They’re easy to make, and the flavor is out of this world!"
How this recipe comes together
Making Garlic Cream Cheese Bagels is a straightforward process that anyone can follow. You’ll start by preheating your oven and preparing both the creamy filling and the garlic butter. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity: mix, spread, brush, and bake. Here’s how it breaks down:
- Preheat your oven to create the perfect environment for golden-brown bagels.
- Prepare a delicious cream cheese filling packed with sweetness and saltiness.
- Whip up a tasty garlic butter mixture that elevates the bagel experience.
- Assemble and bake until the bagels are irresistibly golden brown!
Ingredients
To get started, gather the following ingredients:
- 6 bagels
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon granulated white sugar
- 1 tablespoon sweetened condensed milk
- Pinch of salt
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 1 1/2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 to 2 tablespoons Kewpie mayo
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 3 tablespoons grated parmesan
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Feel free to substitute cream cheese with your favorite spread or use different herbs in the garlic butter for a unique twist!
Step-by-step instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sugar, condensed milk, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
- In another bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, milk, Kewpie mayo, oregano, parmesan, and salt to make the garlic butter.
- Slice each bagel in half, then spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture on each half.
- Brush the garlic butter generously over the cream cheese.
- Place the bagel halves on a baking sheet and bake for 11 to 13 minutes or until golden brown.

Best ways to enjoy it
When it comes to serving Garlic Cream Cheese Bagels, there are countless ways to elevate your experience. You can serve these savory treats warm, fresh out of the oven, alongside a simple salad or some fresh fruit for a balanced meal. Pair them with eggs or even avocado for a more filling breakfast. For an added crunch, sprinkle extra parmesan on top before baking, or serve them with a side of marinara sauce for dipping!
How to store
To keep your Garlic Cream Cheese Bagels fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy them later, you can freeze the unbaked bagel halves in a single layer on a baking sheet and then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Pro chef tips
- Opt for Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh garlic and herbs will truly elevate the flavor of your bagels.
- Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to add in your favorite spices or even a dash of red pepper flakes for a kick.
- Make it Ahead: This recipe is perfect for prepping ahead of time. You can prepare the cream cheese filling and garlic butter in advance to assemble the bagels the next day.
Creative twists
Feel free to make this recipe your own! Swap the cream cheese for a vegan alternative for a plant-based version, or add in sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers to the filling for an extra flavor boost. If you’re looking for something lighter, try using Greek yogurt in place of cream cheese.

Your questions answered
How long do these bagels take to prepare?
The entire process, from prep to baking, takes about 30 minutes, making it a quick and easy dish.
Can I use store-bought bagels?
Absolutely! While homemade bagels are wonderful, store-bought ones offer the same delicious result, especially with the creamy and garlicky toppings.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
For best results, reheat the bagels in the oven or toaster oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes. This will help retain their texture and flavor.

Garlic Cream Cheese Bagels
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sugar, condensed milk, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
- In another bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, milk, Kewpie mayo, oregano, parmesan, and salt to make the garlic butter.
- Slice each bagel in half, then spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture on each half.
- Brush the garlic butter generously over the cream cheese.
- Place the bagel halves on a baking sheet and bake for 11 to 13 minutes or until golden brown.







