Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread

This ultra-flavorful Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread is my favorite twist on classic garlic bread—a crowd-pleasing snack that combines soft bread, a savory cream cheese filling, and a buttery garlic topping. Each piece is stuffed so that every bite is gooey, garlicky, and just a little bit indulgent.

The first time I tried this, my family fought over the last pieces and ever since, it is the most-requested party bread in our home.

Ingredients

• Soft white bread like brioche or milk bread: The fluffier the bread, the more deliciously it soaks up all that filling
• Unsalted butter melted: Adds richness to the bread both inside and out Make sure your butter is good quality for best flavor
• Salt: Brings out the flavors in both bread and topping
• Cream cheese softened: Gives a creamy tangy filling that melts perfectly in the oven Use full-fat for extra creaminess
• Fresh garlic minced: The star of the topping and filling Use plump cloves for maximum aroma
• Green onions finely chopped: Adds freshness and bite Choose firm bright green stalks
• Fresh parsley chopped optional: Lends freshness and color Flat-leaf parsley works best
• Black pepper: Adds a little warmth and highlights the savory flavors Use freshly cracked for best flavor
• Red pepper flakes optional: Offers a hint of heat if you like it spicy Choose a fresher jar for more flavor

To select great ingredients I always look for the softest bread available and make sure my cream cheese is room temperature so the filling mixes up silky smooth.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling:

Combine cream cheese garlic green onions parsley black pepper and salt in a medium bowl Mash together with a fork or spatula until the mixture is smooth If you like a bit of heat stir in the red pepper flakes until evenly blended

Slice and Prepare the Bread:

Place the whole loaf on a cutting board With a serrated knife carefully make diagonal cuts across the top going about three-fourths deep into the bread but not all the way through Turn the loaf and make crosswise diagonal cuts to form a diamond pattern Each cut will form a pocket for stuffing

Stuff the Bread:

Use a small spatula or butter knife to spoon and spread the cream cheese filling into all the pockets Work carefully to fill each slice without breaking the loaf apart

Brush with Melted Butter:

In a small bowl stir together melted butter and salt Brush the entire outside of the loaf generously with this mixture making sure to get the top and sides evenly coated

Bake in Foil:

Place the prepared loaf on a baking sheet Wrap it loosely in aluminum foil to keep the bread soft but leave a small opening at the top Bake in a preheated 350 degree oven for 15 minutes

Crisp the Bread:

Unwrap the loaf and return it to the oven for another 10 to 15 minutes until the top is golden brown and the cream cheese filling is bubbling

Make and Brush Garlic Topping:

While the bread bakes mix together more melted butter minced garlic and parsley Once the loaf comes out of the oven brush this mixture over the hot top and return to bake two or three minutes more for extra flavor

Cool and Slice:

Let the bread cool for five minutes so the filling sets slightly Slice all the way through for individual servings and serve warm

Pin

The fresh green onion is my favorite bit It adds a punchy brightness that cuts through the richness Once I used chives from my garden and everyone said there was something extra special in the flavor

Storage Tips

This bread is best served fresh and warm but leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days Warm slices for a few seconds in the microwave or wrap the loaf in foil and heat in a low oven to revive the gooey filling and crisp the outside If you plan to make ahead assemble the loaf with filling then bake just before serving

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find brioche any soft white bread or even dinner rolls work Use whipped cream cheese for easier mixing or swap green onions for chives or finely diced shallots For a spicier kick add a bit more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne powder If parsley is unavailable fresh dill or basil can add their own unique flavor

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Serving Suggestions

Serve this bread as a snack appetizer or alongside soups and salads I love pairing it with a simple tomato soup or letting everyone pull apart their own piece at a picnic You can cut the stuffed loaf into smaller sections for party bites or serve as part of a bread basket at gatherings

Cultural Roots

Inspired by the bakery trend from Korea this bread takes the familiar flavors of Western garlic bread but brings in a sweet and tangy cream cheese filling I first tasted it at a local Korean bakery and immediately knew I had to recreate that magical balance of flavors at home It quickly became a modern classic for bread lovers everywhere

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of bread works best for this dish?

A soft white loaf such as brioche or milk bread absorbs the creamy filling and gives a tender, pillowy texture.

→ How can I achieve a crisp exterior while keeping the bread moist inside?

Wrap the stuffed loaf in foil for the initial bake, then unwrap and return to the oven for a golden, crispy finish.

→ Can I add extra heat or flavor to the filling?

Stir in red pepper flakes or additional herbs like chives for a spicy or aromatic boost to the cheese mixture.

→ Is it possible to prepare this bread ahead of time?

You can assemble the loaf with filling, cover tightly, and bake just before serving for optimal freshness.

→ Why is it important to avoid slicing the loaf all the way through?

Leaving the base intact creates pockets for the filling while keeping the loaf's shape for easy serving and sharing.