Description
Savory, creamy, and slightly sweet, this Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread is a bakery-style indulgence you can easily make at home. Popularized by Korean bakeries, this street food favorite features a golden-crusted bun filled with sweetened cream cheese and soaked in a rich garlic butter sauce. It’s crispy on the outside, soft and creamy inside—a perfect balance of flavors and textures in every bite.
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Ingredients
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
3 tbsp powdered sugar
2 tbsp heavy cream or milk
½ tsp vanilla extract (optional)
For the Garlic Butter Coating:
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
4 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated
2 tbsp honey or sugar
1 tbsp mayonnaise (adds creaminess, optional)
1 tbsp chopped parsley (fresh or dried)
1 egg (for richness and coating)
For the Bread:
4–6 small round bread rolls (brioche or soft dinner rolls work best)
Parmesan cheese or shredded mozzarella (optional for topping)
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
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In a bowl, beat together cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk or cream, and vanilla until smooth and pipeable.
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Transfer to a piping bag or a zip-top bag with the corner cut off.
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Chill slightly if needed to firm up before filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
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In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, minced garlic, honey, mayo (if using), parsley, and egg until well combined.
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Set aside.
Step 3: Slice the Bread Rolls
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Using a serrated knife, make 6 cuts into each bread roll, like slicing a pizza—don’t cut all the way through.
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The bread should remain intact at the base to hold the filling.
Step 4: Fill the Bread Rolls
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Pipe the cream cheese filling into the slits of each roll.
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You can also pipe a small amount into the center of each roll if desired for extra creaminess.
Step 5: Coat in Garlic Butter
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Dip or generously brush each roll with the garlic butter sauce, making sure to coat all sides and inside the cuts.
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Place coated rolls on a parchment-lined baking tray.
Step 6: Bake the Bread
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown and slightly crisp on top.
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Optional: Sprinkle with cheese during the last 5 minutes for a melty topping.
Step 7: Serve & Enjoy
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Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
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Enjoy warm, and pull apart to reveal the creamy filling and garlicky crust.
Notes
Use Soft Rolls – Brioche or milk bread gives the best texture and flavor.
Pipe Generously – Don’t be shy with the cream cheese; it should ooze slightly when warm.
Chill the Filling – This makes it easier to pipe and less runny during baking.
Customize It – Add chopped chives, mozzarella, or chili flakes for a twist.
Serve Fresh – Best eaten warm for that melty, crispy texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Cuisine: Korean-Inspired Fusion