The smell of garlic bagels baking in your kitchen is magical. It turns a simple morning into a special treat. The first bite is chewy, then the garlic flavor hits, waking up your taste buds. It’s the perfect way to start your day, whether you’re making them yourself or finding them nearby.
Garlic bagels mix the softness of a regular bagel with garlic’s strong taste. This mix is both comforting and exciting. It’s a favorite for breakfast, brunch, or even a quick snack.
Making garlic bagels is easy. Just mix garlic butter for 5 minutes and bake at 375°F for 13-16 minutes. You can add cheddar cheese, prosciutto, and Italian salami for extra flavor. The recipe makes four, great for family or friends.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Garlic bagels combine traditional bagel texture with savory garlic flavor
- Quick preparation time: 5 minutes for garlic butter, 13-16 minutes baking
- Versatile recipe suitable for various dietary preferences
- Perfect for quick breakfasts, brunches, or post-workout meals
- Each serving provides a balanced mix of carbs, protein, and healthy fats
- Customizable with different cheeses and proteins to suit taste preferences
What Makes Garlic Bagels Special
Garlic bagels are a favorite breakfast item, blending the classic New York City bagel with a savory twist. They are hand-rolled, boiled, and baked, giving them a unique taste. This makes them stand out from regular bagels.
History of Garlic Bagels
The story of garlic bagels starts on the East Coast, mainly in New York City. This tasty version was a creative spin on the traditional bagel. Many people remember enjoying garlic bagels in Queens, which adds to their charm.
Flavor Profile and Appeal
Garlic bagels are known for their rich, savory flavor. They often include minced garlic and dried parsley, which creates a perfect mix of tastes. People love them, saying they are “downright delicious” and “100% obsessed” with the flavor.

Nutritional Benefits
Garlic bagels are not just tasty; they’re also good for you. They have no saturated fat or trans fat, making them a better choice for breakfast. If you’re looking for an easy garlic bagels recipe, many are vegan and free from harmful additives.
Feature | Benefit |
---|---|
No preservatives | Healthier option |
Vegan-friendly | Suitable for plant-based diets |
Hand-rolled | Authentic texture and taste |
Boiled ‘n baked | Traditional preparation method |
Whether you need a quick breakfast or want to make your own garlic bagel topping, these bagels are a great choice. They’re delicious and satisfying at any time.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Garlic Bagels
To make tasty garlic bagels at home, you need a few key ingredients. High-protein bread flour is the base, giving the bagels their chewy texture. You’ll need about 5 cups for 8 bagels.
Yeast is key for the bagels to rise properly. Use 1 tablespoon of active dry yeast, mixed with warm water and a bit of sugar or honey. Salt adds flavor and controls yeast – 2 teaspoons is perfect. For garlic flavor, mix 6 cloves of garlic with 120g of melted butter.

Adding 3g of dried parsley or 9g of fresh parsley boosts flavor. For a richer taste, use 60ml of condensed milk. When making garlic bagel cream cheese, mix 250g of cream cheese with 60ml of heavy cream and some garlic.
Don’t forget toppings! Everything bagel seasoning adds a nice crunch. Try garlic bagel chips by baking leftover bagel slices until crispy. If you like onion bagels, add dried minced onion to your seasoning.
Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
---|---|---|
Bread flour | 5 cups | Base for chewy texture |
Active dry yeast | 1 tablespoon | Leavening agent |
Salt | 2 teaspoons | Flavor enhancer |
Garlic cloves | 6 | Primary flavor |
Melted butter | 120g | Moisture and richness |
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Making garlic bagels at home is simpler than you might think. This guide will help you from making the dough to getting that golden-brown finish. Whether you’re making cream cheese bagels or stuffed garlic bagels, these steps will help you succeed.
Making the Dough
Begin by mixing 3 ½ cups of bread flour, 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast, 4 ½ teaspoons of sugar, and 1 ½ teaspoons of salt in a large bowl. Add 1 ¼ cups of warm water (110-115°F) and knead for 6-8 minutes until smooth. Let the dough rise in a warm place for about an hour.
Proofing and Shaping
Once doubled in size, divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball, then poke a hole in the center and stretch to form a bagel shape. Place the shaped bagels on a baking sheet and let them rest for 10 minutes.

Boiling Process
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add ¼ cup of honey or barley malt syrup. Boil each bagel for 1 minute per side. This step is key for their chewy texture.
Baking Techniques
Preheat your oven to 425°F. After boiling, place the bagels on a baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space between each. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Cool on a wire rack before serving or stuffing with your favorite cream cheese bagel recipe.
Ingredient | Amount |
---|---|
Bread Flour | 3 ½ cups (440g) |
Active Dry Yeast | 2 teaspoons (6g) |
Sugar | 4 ½ teaspoons (19g) |
Salt | 1 ½ teaspoons (6g) |
Warm Water | 1 ¼ cups (300ml) |
Classic Garlic Bagel Toppings
Garlic bagels are a blank canvas for tasty toppings. You can choose from classic seasonings, creative cheese mixes, and fresh herbs. There are endless ways to make your garlic bagel even better.
Traditional Seasonings
Try adding sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or “everything bagel” seasoning to your garlic bagel. These toppings add texture and flavor, making the garlic taste even better. For a hearty breakfast, top your bagel with scrambled eggs, cheese, and bacon.

Cheese Combinations
Cream cheese is a top choice for bagels. You can use garlic-infused cream cheese for an extra kick. Or, mix it with chive and garlic or sun-dried tomato and basil for a unique taste. For something fancy, pair your bagel with brie and honey or goat cheese and figs.
Fresh Herb Options
Fresh herbs can elevate your garlic bagel. Sprinkle chopped dill on cream cheese or add basil leaves for a caprese-style topping. For a Mediterranean twist, try hummus with fresh parsley and cucumber slices.
Topping Category | Popular Options |
---|---|
Traditional | Sesame seeds, poppy seeds, everything bagel seasoning |
Cheese | Garlic cream cheese, chive and garlic, brie and honey |
Fresh Herbs | Dill, basil, parsley |
Finding the perfect garlic bagel topping is all about what you like. Try different combinations to discover your favorite. Whether it’s a simple cream cheese spread or something more adventurous, your garlic bagel will always hit the spot.
Creative Serving Suggestions
Garlic bagels open up a world of flavors. If you’re searching for garlic bagels near me, you’ll find many ways to serve them. Try a breakfast sandwich with a garlic bagel, crispy bacon, and a fried egg for a great start.
For a quick recipe, spread avocado on your bagel and add everything seasoning. This gives your bagel a trendy twist.
Make your brunch special with garlic bagels, prosciutto, and arugula. This mix is fancy and adds luxury to your meal. For a Mediterranean flavor, put goat cheese and sun-dried tomatoes on your bagel. It’s a burst of taste.
Don’t miss out on sweet and savory combos. Honey and brie cheese on a garlic bagel is a surprising hit. It’s perfect for a relaxed brunch.
- Garlic bagel pizza: Top with marinara sauce, mozzarella, and your favorite toppings
- Garlic bagel croutons: Cube, toss with olive oil, and bake for a crunchy salad topping
- Garlic bagel bread pudding: Transform day-old bagels into a savory comfort food dish
These ideas will keep your garlic bagel meals exciting. Whether you’re looking for garlic bagels near me or making your own, these suggestions will delight your taste buds.
Storage and Freshness Tips
Keeping your garlic bagels fresh is important. This way, you can enjoy them for a longer time. Here are some tips to keep your garlic bread bagels tasty and fresh.
Proper Storage Methods
Store your garlic bagels in air-tight containers. You can keep them on your counter or in a bread box. This method keeps them fresh for up to a week.
Don’t put them in the fridge. It makes them stale faster. Freezing is the best option for longer storage.
Freezing Guidelines
Freeze your garlic bagels after slicing them. Use freezer-safe bags and remove air as much as you can. They can last up to three months in the freezer.
Freezing with slices ready lets you toast only what you need. This helps reduce waste.
Reheating Recommendations
To reheat frozen garlic bagels, spritz them with water first. This adds moisture and improves their texture. For stale bagels, steam them in a 375°F oven for 5-10 minutes.
You can also microwave them wrapped in a damp paper towel for 15-20 seconds.
Tip: Let freshly baked garlic bagels cool completely on a wire rack for about an hour before storing. This prevents condensation and keeps them crisp.
Follow these tips for storing and reheating. You’ll always have delicious garlic bagels ready for a quick, tasty breakfast or snack.
Garlic Bagel Breakfast Sandwiches
Start your day with a delicious garlic bagel breakfast sandwich. These sandwiches mix the taste of garlic bagels with tasty toppings. They make a great meal to begin your day.
Classic Combinations
Begin with a toasted garlic bagel. Add garlic bagel cream cheese for extra flavor. Then, add scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar cheese.
This mix offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Gourmet Variations
For a fancy twist, try an avocado and smoked salmon sandwich. Spread mashed avocado with lemon on your garlic bagel. Add smoked salmon, capers, and red onion for a fancy breakfast.
Finish with a sprinkle of dill for freshness.
Vegetarian Options
Make a tasty vegetarian sandwich with an onion bagel. Spread hummus on both halves. Add sliced tomatoes, cucumber, and sprouts.
Include scrambled tofu seasoned with turmeric and black salt for protein. This shows vegetarian options can be just as good as meaty ones.
Sandwich Type | Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time |
---|---|---|---|
Classic Garlic Bagel | 5 minutes | 5 minutes | 10 minutes |
Gourmet Smoked Salmon | 7 minutes | 3 minutes | 10 minutes |
Vegetarian Delight | 8 minutes | 4 minutes | 12 minutes |
Try different toppings on your garlic bagel sandwiches. You can use avocado or sriracha sauce. Enjoy your homemade breakfast sandwiches fresh for the best taste!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making garlic bagels can be tricky, but with the right know-how, you’ll be whipping up delicious batches in no time. Let’s dive into some common pitfalls and how to sidestep them.
Over-kneading the dough is a frequent mistake. While it’s tempting to keep working the dough, this can lead to tough bagels. Instead, aim for a smooth, elastic consistency. For perfect results, use the “windowpane test” – stretch a small piece of dough; if it forms a thin, translucent membrane without tearing, it’s ready.
Using the wrong flour can spell disaster for your garlic bagels. Opt for high-protein flour to ensure your bagels hold their shape and have that signature chewy texture. Low-protein flour might result in bagels that fall apart during cooking.
When it comes to garlic, less is often more. Too much garlic can overpower the bagel’s flavor and affect the dough’s consistency. For a balanced taste, start with a small amount and adjust to your liking. Remember, you can always add more garlic to your cream cheese bagel recipe later.
Don’t rush the proofing process. Allow your dough to rise properly, doubling or tripling in size. This patience pays off with fluffy, flavorful bagels. For storage, remember that bagels can last up to 6 months in the freezer, perfect for making garlic bagel chips later.
Mistake | Solution |
---|---|
Over-kneading | Use the windowpane test |
Wrong flour | Choose high-protein flour |
Too much garlic | Start small, adjust to taste |
Rushed proofing | Allow dough to double or triple in size |
By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll be on your way to creating perfect garlic bagels every time. Whether you’re making a classic cream cheese bagel recipe or experimenting with garlic bagel chips, these tips will ensure your baking success.
Health and Dietary Considerations
Garlic cream cheese stuffed bagels add a tasty twist to breakfast. But, it’s important to know their nutritional impact and how they fit into different diets.
Nutritional Information
A plain bagel has about 245-280 calories, mostly from carbs. It has 9-11 grams of protein and only 1-2 grams of fat. Adding cream cheese inside boosts calories to 300-400.
Bagel Type | Calories | Carbs (g) | Protein (g) |
---|---|---|---|
Plain Bagel | 260 | 50 | 10 |
Everything Bagel | 290 | 55 | 11 |
Bagels with Cream Cheese Inside | 350 | 52 | 12 |
Dietary Modifications
For a healthier choice, try whole wheat or multigrain bagels. They have more fiber, which helps control blood sugar and keeps you full. You can also use low-fat cream cheese to cut down on calories.
Allergen Awareness
Watch out for allergens in garlic bagels. Wheat and dairy are common allergens in bagels and cream cheese. If you’re gluten-sensitive, look for gluten-free bagels made from rice or almond. Always check labels on pre-made garlic cream cheese stuffed bagels to make sure they fit your dietary needs.
Where to Find the Best Garlic Bagels
Craving garlic bagels near me? You’re in luck! Orange County has a lively bagel scene with shops for all tastes. Sidecar in Costa Mesa makes handmade bagels, including a jalapeño cheddar option with scallion cream cheese. East Coast Bagel Co. offers a garlic bagel with herb cream cheese, known for its New York-style chewiness.
Einstein Bros. Bagels has tempting breakfast sandwiches with stuffed garlic bagels. Their farmhouse sandwich, with eggs, bacon, ham, cheddar, and roasted tomato, is a hit. Boil & Bake, a local favorite, serves naturally leavened bagels and a signature lox bagel with house-cured salmon and fresh dill.
Looking for garlic bagels outside Orange County? Los Angeles has unique options. Courage Bagels, known for its week-long preparation, attracts many fans. Calic Bagel’s garlic cream cheese bagel, dipped in garlic butter, is a daily favorite. With everything from artisanal to gluten-free, finding your perfect garlic bagel is easy.
- Sidecar: Handcrafted bagels in Costa Mesa
- East Coast Bagel Co.: New York-style garlic bagels
- Einstein Bros. Bagels: Stuffed breakfast sandwiches
- Boil & Bake: Naturally leavened bagels in Orange County
- Courage Bagels: Week-long preparation process in LA
- Calic Bagel: Garlic butter-dipped bagels
Conclusion
Garlic bagels have become a favorite in breakfast foods. They have a rich history and a flavor that’s hard to resist. Now, you can make your own garlic bagels at home with our recipe.
Making garlic bagels is fun, whether you’re experienced or new to baking. Just remember to proof the dough well, boil before baking, and pick the right toppings. Soon, you’ll make bagels as good as those in New York City’s Ess-a-Bagel or Liberty Bagels.
Try different toppings and fillings to make your garlic bagel sandwich just right. You can go for classic cream cheese or try something new. And if you’re watching your diet, there are gluten-free options like Modern Bread and Bagel.
So, get ready to make homemade garlic bagels. Your taste buds will love you, and you might become the go-to breakfast spot in your area!
FAQ
What makes garlic bagels different from regular bagels?
Garlic bagels have garlic in the dough or as a topping. This gives them a savory taste. They mix the chewy bagel texture with the tasty garlic.
How do you make garlic bagels at home?
To make garlic bagels at home, start with a bagel dough. Add garlic, either minced or garlic powder. Then, shape the bagels, boil them briefly, and bake until golden.
What are some popular toppings for garlic bagels?
Popular toppings include sesame seeds, poppy seeds, and Parmesan cheese. You can also add fresh herbs like chives or parsley. Enjoy them with cream cheese, butter, or savory spreads.
Are garlic bagels healthy?
Garlic bagels can be part of a healthy diet. Garlic is good for your immune system and heart. But, bagels are high in carbs, so eat them in moderation.
How long do garlic bagels stay fresh?
Garlic bagels stay fresh for 2-3 days at room temperature in an airtight container. You can freeze them for up to 3 months for longer storage.
Can I make gluten-free garlic bagels?
Yes, use gluten-free flour blends to make gluten-free garlic bagels. The texture might be different from traditional bagels.
What’s the best way to reheat a garlic bagel?
Slice the garlic bagel in half and toast it. Use a toaster or broiler for a few minutes. This makes the bagel crispy again.
Where can I find garlic bagels near me?
Find garlic bagels at local bakeries, bagel shops, or some grocery stores. Many places offer online ordering and delivery.
What cheese goes well with garlic bagels?
Cream cheese, cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan are great with garlic bagels. For something fancy, try goat cheese or herb-infused cream cheese.
Can I make garlic bagel chips?
Yes, slice leftover garlic bagels thinly. Brush with olive oil and bake until crispy. They’re perfect as a snack or salad topping.