Creamy Garlic Herb Spread for Bagels
Transform your morning routine with this delightful Creamy Garlic Herb Spread! This homemade flavored cream cheese rivals the delicious varieties found at your favorite bagel shops like Bruggers and Panera. Bursting with fresh herbs and a subtle kick of garlic, this spread is not only easy to make but also stays fresh in the refrigerator for several days. Perfectly paired with fresh bagels, it’s an ideal addition to breakfast, brunch, or even as a tasty snack. Elevate your spread game with this deliciously creamy concoction that brings the taste of gourmet breakfasts right to your home!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
cream cheese
16 ounces (softened (light works just as well))
green onions
2 tablespoons (minced (white and green parts))
fresh dill
2 tablespoons (minced)
fresh parsley
2 tablespoons (minced)
minced garlic
2 teaspoons
milk
2 tablespoons
salt
1/2 teaspoon
Instructions
1
Start by ensuring your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, minced green onions, fresh dill, fresh parsley, minced garlic, milk, and salt.
3
Using an electric mixer (a Kitchen Aid stand mixer works wonderfully), blend the ingredients on medium speed until smooth and creamy, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.
4
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more garlic or salt according to your preference.
5
Transfer the creamy herb spread into a serving bowl, smoothing the top with a spatula for an appealing presentation.
6
Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
7
Serve generously on toasted bagels and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Garlic Herb Spread for Bagels?
It is a homemade flavored cream cheese spread that features fresh herbs and a subtle kick of garlic, similar to varieties found at bagel shops.
How much cream cheese do I need for this recipe?
You will need 16 ounces of cream cheese.
Can I use light cream cheese instead of regular?
Yes, light cream cheese works just as well for this recipe.
What fresh herbs are included in this spread?
The recipe calls for fresh dill and fresh parsley.
How should the green onions be prepared?
You should mince 2 tablespoons of green onions, including both the white and green parts.
How much garlic is used in the spread?
The recipe requires 2 teaspoons of minced garlic.
Why is milk added to the recipe?
Milk is added to help achieve a smooth and creamy consistency during the mixing process.
What is the importance of softening the cream cheese?
Softening the cream cheese to room temperature makes it much easier to mix and ensures a smoother texture.
Do I need an electric mixer for this recipe?
An electric mixer or a stand mixer like a Kitchen Aid is recommended to blend the ingredients effectively until creamy.
What speed should I use on my mixer?
You should blend the ingredients on medium speed until they are well incorporated and smooth.
How long should the spread be refrigerated before serving?
The spread should be refrigerated for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
How long does this homemade spread stay fresh?
This herb spread stays fresh in the refrigerator for several days.
What is the best way to serve this cream cheese?
It is best served generously on fresh or toasted bagels.
Is this recipe similar to spreads from Panera or Bruegger's?
Yes, this homemade version is designed to rival the delicious flavored cream cheeses found at popular bagel shops.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 7 ingredients: cream cheese, green onions, fresh dill, fresh parsley, minced garlic, milk, and salt.
Can I adjust the amount of garlic?
Yes, you can taste the mixture and add more garlic if you prefer a stronger flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for brunch?
Absolutely, it is an ideal addition to any breakfast, brunch, or snack spread.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be kept in a bowl covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Can I use this recipe as a dip?
Yes, it is versatile enough to be used as both a spread and a tasty dip.
How much salt is needed for the recipe?
The recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of salt, but you can adjust this to your taste.
Can I make this spread ahead of time?
Yes, making it ahead of time is actually better as it gives the flavors more time to develop in the fridge.
How much fresh dill should I use?
You should use 2 tablespoons of minced fresh dill.
How much fresh parsley should I use?
You should use 2 tablespoons of minced fresh parsley.
What should I use to smooth the top of the spread?
A spatula works perfectly for smoothing the top for an appealing presentation.
Is this recipe easy to follow?
Yes, it is an easy recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet breakfast item.
Does this spread have a strong garlic taste?
It has a subtle kick of garlic that complements the fresh herbs without being overpowering.
What categories does this recipe fall under?
It falls under breakfast, herb spread, dip, and homemade categories.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can easily double the ingredients if you are serving a larger group.
Why should I taste the spread before serving?
Tasting allows you to adjust the seasoning, such as salt or garlic, to your personal preference.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
While fresh herbs provide the best flavor, you can use dried herbs in smaller quantities if necessary.