If you love bagels but wish there was a quicker, fuss-free way to enjoy bite-sized versions at home, you’re going to seriously appreciate this Stuffed Bagel Bites with Cream Cheese Recipe. I absolutely love how these come together with just a handful of simple ingredients, no yeast or boiling needed, yet deliver that satisfyingly chewy texture and melty cream cheese center—just like the Starbucks favorites we all crave. Stick with me here, because this recipe is fan-freaking-tastic and perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even a party appetizer!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No yeast, no hassle: The dough uses Greek yogurt and baking powder for quick prep without waiting hours for rising.
- Melty cream cheese surprise: Each bite has a gooey center that’s just irresistible and tastes way better than store-bought.
- Customizable seasoning: You can sprinkle your favorite toppings like Everything But The Bagel seasoning to make it your own.
- Perfect for any time: Breakfast, snack, lunchbox addition, or even party appetizers – these bites always impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What I love about this Stuffed Bagel Bites with Cream Cheese Recipe is how straightforward the ingredient list is. Each element plays a key role to get that authentic bagel bite texture and flavor without any stress.
- Plain Greek yogurt: This adds moisture and a slight tang while keeping the dough tender but firm enough to hold shape.
- All purpose flour: Use regular flour for that chewy texture; I recommend spooning it in gently so your bites don’t turn dry.
- Baking powder: This is our leavening agent—no yeast here! It helps the dough puff up just right.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the tangy yogurt.
- Cream cheese: Using small cubes of full-fat cream cheese gives you that luscious melt in the center we all crave.
- Egg white: Brushing this on top gives a nice sheen and helps the seasoning stick beautifully.
- Everything But The Bagel seasoning (EBTB): If you’ve never tried this seasoning blend, you’re in for a treat—sesame seeds, garlic, and onion make for the perfect bagel top.
Variations
I always enjoy switching things up to keep this Stuffed Bagel Bites with Cream Cheese Recipe fresh and fun. Don’t be afraid to experiment—you’ll find plenty of ways to make it fit your mood or dietary needs.
- Try different cheeses: Swap cream cheese for flavored cheeses like chive and onion or even smoked gouda for a unique twist—my family loved the smoky flavor combo.
- Gluten-free option: I tested this with a gluten-free flour blend and it works well, just watch the dough consistency as some blends absorb more moisture.
- Seasoning swaps: If you don’t have Everything But The Bagel seasoning, paprika, za’atar, or even simple garlic powder are great alternatives.
- Add herbs or spices: Mixing fresh dill or chopped scallions into the dough gives these bites a fresh pop of flavor I can’t resist.
How to Make Stuffed Bagel Bites with Cream Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Get your oven ready and prep your workspace
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step is key because these little bites cook fast, and parchment ensures they won’t stick or burn on the bottom.
Step 2: Mix the dough until it pulls away
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Then add your plain Greek yogurt and stir with a large spoon. The dough should be sticky but workable—you’ll know it’s ready once it starts pulling away from the sides of your bowl. If it feels too wet, sprinkle in a little extra flour, but be careful not to dry it out.
Step 3: Shape your dough balls for stuffing
Lightly flour your workspace and divide the dough into 8 even pieces. Roll each piece into a tight ball using your hands. This is important because a firm outer layer helps the dough hold the cream cheese while baking.
Step 4: Stuff the dough with cream cheese cubes
Flatten each dough ball gently to about ¼ inch thick and place a small cube of cream cheese right in the center. Now, fold the dough over the cheese and pinch the edges together tightly. I discovered a neat trick here: wet your fingers with hot water and rub all the seams to help seal the dough like a pro and avoid any leaks. Then, roll the dough ball again gently to smooth out any cracks.
Step 5: Brush, season, and bake
Place your stuffed bagel bites on the parchment-lined baking sheet, brush each gently with whisked egg white to create that lovely golden crust, and sprinkle with your Everything But The Bagel seasoning. Pop them in the oven for about 25 minutes or until they’re beautifully golden brown on top.
Step 6: Cool and enjoy!
Once baked, move them to a cooling rack or tray. I know it’s tempting to dig in immediately, but letting them sit even just a few minutes helps the cream cheese center set slightly and prevents burning your mouth. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Pro Tips for Making Stuffed Bagel Bites with Cream Cheese Recipe
- Seal seams with water: Wetting your fingers and rubbing the dough seams helps prevent cheese leakage – this trick was a game changer for me.
- Don’t over-flour the dough: Less flour means chewier bites, which is exactly the texture you want; just dust enough to keep it from sticking.
- Customize seasoning while warm: Try adding extra seasoning immediately after baking while the bites are still warm for maximum flavor adherence.
- Avoid underbaking: When they don’t brown fully, the dough can taste doughy; be patient and look for golden color all over.
How to Serve Stuffed Bagel Bites with Cream Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
I usually sprinkle a little freshly chopped chives or dill on top when serving—it adds a fresh herbal pop that pairs perfectly with the creamy cheese. A little more Everything But The Bagel seasoning at the table never hurts either!
Side Dishes
I love pairing these stuffed bites with a simple fresh fruit salad or crispy veggie sticks to balance out the richness. They also make a fun side for egg scrambles or a light soup if you want something heartier.
Creative Ways to Present
For brunch parties, I’ve arranged these bagel bites on a platter surrounded by mini dipping sauces like spicy mustard or honey for guests to customize. Stacking them with colorful garnishes like edible flowers makes a delightful centerpiece that’s as pretty as it is delicious!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When I’ve done this, they retain their flavor well but you’ll want to reheat before eating to get that fresh-baked feeling back.
Freezing
These bagel bites freeze beautifully! I place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a ziplock bag. When you’re ready, just bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes—no need to thaw first.
Reheating
I reheat leftovers in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F for about 8-10 minutes, which brings back the crisp exterior and melty cream cheese inside much better than microwaving.
FAQs
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Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
Greek yogurt works best due to its thickness and lower moisture content, which helps the dough hold together. Using regular yogurt may make the dough too wet and sticky, but you can try reducing other liquids or adding a bit more flour to compensate.
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What can I substitute for the Everything But The Bagel seasoning?
If you don’t have this seasoning on hand, a mixture of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic powder, and dried onion flakes works well to mimic the flavor profile. Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs and spices too.
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Is it okay if some cream cheese leaks out during baking?
It happens occasionally if the dough isn’t sealed tightly, but don’t worry—it usually bakes up delicious anyway! To minimize leaks, make sure to pinch and wet-seal the seams as described in the recipe.
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Can I make these vegan or dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the Greek yogurt with a thick plant-based yogurt, and use a vegan cream cheese alternative. The texture might vary slightly, but it’s still a tasty option.
Final Thoughts
This Stuffed Bagel Bites with Cream Cheese Recipe has become one of my go-to quick snacks and comfort foods—it’s simple enough for a busy morning but special enough to impress guests. The joy of biting into that warm, pillowy dough with a creamy filling is seriously unbeatable. I can’t recommend you give these a try enough; once you do, you’ll find yourself making them over and over just like I do. Trust me, your taste buds and your family will thank you!
Print
Stuffed Bagel Bites with Cream Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 bagel bites
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Easy Stuffed Bagel Bites are a quick and delicious homemade snack made with a simple 4-ingredient dough and stuffed with creamy cream cheese. No yeast or boiling required, these bites bake to golden perfection and are sprinkled with Everything But The Bagel seasoning for that iconic flavor. Perfect for snack time or parties!
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tsps baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
Filling & Topping
- 4 oz. cream cheese, cut into 8 cubes (about 1½ tsp each)
- 1 egg white, whisked
- Everything But The Bagel Seasoning (EBTB), for sprinkling
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Make the dough: In a large bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the Greek yogurt and stir with a large spoon until a sticky dough forms that pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
- Form the balls: Lightly flour your work surface. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and tightly roll each piece into a ball to help the dough hold together and prevent filling from leaking.
- Stuff the dough: Flatten each dough ball to about ¼ inch thickness with your hand. Place a cube of cream cheese in the center, then fold the dough completely around the cheese to seal it inside. Use hot water on your fingers to moisten and seal the creases well, then roll the stuffed dough balls again to ensure they are sealed.
- Bake: Place the stuffed dough balls on the prepared baking sheet. Brush each ball with the whisked egg white and sprinkle generously with Everything But The Bagel seasoning. Bake for 25 minutes or until the bagel bites are golden brown.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and transfer the bagel bites to a tray to cool slightly before serving warm.
Notes
- These mini bagel bites are made with just 4 simple ingredients plus cream cheese, making them quick and easy with no yeast or boiling needed.
- The Everything But The Bagel seasoning can be substituted with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or garlic powder if desired.
- Make sure the dough is well sealed around the cream cheese to prevent oozing during baking.
- You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bagel bite (approx. 40g)
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
