Korean Cream Cheese Garlic

This Korean cream cheese garlic bread transforms ordinary bread into an irresistible treat that balances savory garlic with creamy, tangy filling. The contrast between the crispy exterior and soft, cheesy interior creates a uniquely satisfying texture that makes this dish a standout for any gathering.

I first made this for a neighborhood potluck last summer and it disappeared within minutes. Since then, it has become my go-to recipe whenever friends come over unexpectedly. The way the cream cheese melts into the bread creates pockets of flavor that never fail to impress.

Ingredients

• Soft white bread: Provides the perfect base for absorbing flavors while maintaining structure. Brioche or milk bread works best for their slightly sweet undertones.
• Cream cheese: The star ingredient that creates the luscious, tangy filling. Allow it to fully soften at room temperature for easiest spreading.
• Fresh garlic: Adds assertive flavor throughout the bread. Use fresh cloves rather than pre-minced for the most vibrant taste.
• Green onions: Provide a mild onion flavor and fresh color contrast. Look for bright, firm stalks without any wilting.
• Butter: Creates richness and helps achieve the golden exterior. Unsalted allows better control over the final flavor profile.
• Parsley: Optional but adds freshness and color. Italian flat leaf has more pronounced flavor than curly varieties.
• Red pepper flakes: Customize the heat level to your preference. Korean gochugaru can be substituted for more authentic flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the cream cheese filling:

Combine softened cream cheese, minced garlic, green onions, parsley, pepper, and salt in a medium bowl. Using a rubber spatula, thoroughly blend all ingredients until completely smooth with no lumps remaining. The mixture should be light and airy. Take care to mince the garlic very finely to avoid harsh pockets of flavor in the final bread.

Create bread pockets:

Working with a sharp serrated knife, make diagonal cuts across the bread loaf at 1-2 inch intervals. Be extremely careful to cut only about 80% through the loaf, keeping the bottom intact to create pockets rather than separate slices. This technique allows the filling to stay contained while baking and creates the distinctive pull-apart effect.

Fill the bread:

Using a small offset spatula or butter knife, generously spread the cream cheese mixture into each pocket, ensuring it reaches all the way to the bottom. Work with care to avoid tearing the bread. For best results, use about 1-2 tablespoons of filling per section, adjusting based on the size of your bread loaf.

Apply butter coating:

Combine melted butter with salt in a small bowl, then use a pastry brush to thoroughly coat all external surfaces of the bread, including the sides and any exposed top areas. This butter layer helps create the golden, crispy exterior that contrasts with the soft interior.

Bake wrapped then unwrapped:

Place the filled bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then loosely wrap with aluminum foil, creating a tent-like structure that allows some air circulation. Bake at 350°F for precisely 15 minutes, then carefully remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes until the exterior becomes golden brown and slightly crisp.

Apply garlic topping:

While the bread bakes, prepare the finishing touch by mixing melted butter, fresh minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Once the bread is golden, remove it from the oven and immediately brush this aromatic mixture over all exposed surfaces, allowing the residual heat to slightly cook the garlic while mellowing its sharpness.

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I particularly love using garlic from my garden in this recipe during the summer months. The first time I served this at a family gathering, my cousin who claims to dislike garlic couldn't stop eating it. She asked for the recipe before leaving and now makes it for her own dinner parties.

Make-Ahead Tips

This bread can be fully prepared and stuffed up to 24 hours in advance. Simply wrap tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove from refrigerator and let stand at room temperature for 20 minutes before following the baking instructions. The cream cheese filling also freezes well for up to one month, making future preparations even quicker.

Flavor Variations

The basic recipe serves as an excellent canvas for creativity. For a Mediterranean twist, add sun-dried tomatoes and oregano to the cream cheese mixture. For a sweeter variation, incorporate honey and cinnamon into the filling and serve as a breakfast treat. Bacon lovers can add crumbled cooked bacon to the filling for an extra savory dimension.

Serving Suggestions

While delicious on its own, this bread pairs wonderfully with hearty soups like tomato bisque or beef stew. For an elegant appetizer presentation, slice the baked bread into individual portions and serve on a wooden board alongside a small bowl of marinara sauce for dipping. At breakfast, serve with scrambled eggs and fresh fruit for a complete meal.

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This bread brings joy to any occasion with its indulgent flavors and crowd-pleasing presentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of bread works best for this dish?

Soft white breads like brioche or milk bread work best as they have a tender texture that complements the creamy filling. These breads also hold their shape well during baking while absorbing the buttery flavors.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the cream cheese filling and stuff the bread up to 24 hours in advance. Keep it refrigerated, then bring to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. The garlic topping is best made fresh just before the final baking step.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the bread soggy.

→ Is this dish spicy?

The basic version is not spicy. The red pepper flakes are optional and can be adjusted to your preference. If you enjoy heat, you can add additional red pepper flakes or even a bit of Korean gochugaru (chili powder) to the cream cheese mixture.

→ What can I serve with Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread?

This bread is substantial enough to serve as an appetizer on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with Korean main dishes like bulgogi or bibimbap. For a simpler meal, serve it alongside a fresh green salad or soup.

→ Can I use pre-minced garlic from a jar?

While fresh garlic provides the best flavor, pre-minced garlic can work in a pinch. If using jarred garlic, reduce the amount by about half since it tends to have a stronger flavor. For optimal taste, fresh garlic is recommended.