Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread

Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread has truly changed my snack game. Warm fluffy rolls are slathered in a silky cream cheese filling and drenched in a garlicky buttery bath before baking. This is a dish you want for movie nights or anytime you crave something a little indulgent but not fussy.

The first time I tried this was late at night after a busy week and I could smell the buttery garlic wafting through the kitchen before they even finished baking. It’s now my go to treat to share when friends drop by.

Ingredients

• Medium dinner rolls: Four pieces is ideal to soak up all that garlicky goodness and using soft fresh rolls makes a big difference in texture
• Cream cheese: Make sure it is softened to be extra creamy and tangy the filling is tastier with full fat
• Sugar: Just enough for gentle sweetness and helps the filling blend
• Heavy cream: Adds luscious richness and prevents the cream cheese from feeling chalky
• Butter: Always use real butter for the best flavor and color in the final bake
• Egg: This brings silkiness and a little shine when brushed over the bread
• Milk: For thinning out the egg mixture and keeping the bread moist
• Minced garlic or garlic paste: The star of the show use fresh garlic for the most punch
• Fresh parsley: Chopped finely this brings brightness and color so skip dried parsley if possible
• Parmesan cheese: Completely optional but it gives a salty touch and crispy top if you want to go the extra step always choose a wedge to grate yourself if you can

Instructions

Prepare the Rolls:

Place your rolls on a parchment lined baking sheet so they do not stick and have room for air to circulate

Make Cream Cheese Filling:

Beat softened cream cheese with a mixer until fully smooth as this ensures your filling will pipe in easily and not clump

Sweeten and Whip:

Add sugar to the cream cheese and beat well so it dissolves completely then add heavy cream and whip until pillowy

Pipe Filling Into Rolls:

Spoon your cream cheese mixture into a piping bag then cut each roll into six or eight wedges but do not slice all the way through you want little pockets still attached now pipe your filling deep into each cut

Mix Garlic Butter:

Melt butter and whisk it thoroughly with egg and milk add minced garlic and chopped parsley stir in until everything is evenly suspended

Coat and Fill the Bread:

Dip and turn each filled roll in garlic butter to thoroughly coat the tops and let it run into every wedge set them back on the baking sheet Parmesan lovers can sprinkle the cheese right now

Bake Golden:

Slide the baking tray into your preheated oven and let them bake just until deeply golden on top and the filling is hot through usually five to ten minutes

I am slightly obsessed with how salty Parmesan melts into the crisp top layer especially paired up with the rich cream cheese center. My family always argues over the last piece every single time I make these for a get together.

Storage Tips

Always let leftovers cool completely before storing in an airtight container. They keep well for up to two days at room temperature or up to four days in the fridge. To reheat microwave for twenty seconds or warm in an oven until heated through for the freshest results.

Ingredient Substitutions

No cream cheese available Goat cheese works well but adds a tangier finish. Fresh herbs bring vibrancy but if none on hand use a pinch of dried Italian seasoning instead. For more sweetness in your filling add a teaspoon of honey to the mix.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these right out of the oven with soup to make dinner extra cozy. Cut them smaller for a party tray or finger food. Pair with a light salad to make an easy lunch.

Cultural and Historical Notes

Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread started as a trendy street food in Korea blending savory bakery influences from Europe with familiar Korean flavors. Korean bakeries are famous for their creative pastries and this dish has become popular worldwide because of its unique mix of sweet and savory.

Seasonal Adaptations

Try adding a pinch of chili flakes for heat in winter. Mix in chopped scallions for a spring inspired twist. Switch to fresh dill or basil in the summer to brighten things up.

Success Stories

I have shared this recipe at countless family parties and someone always asks for the recipe by the end of the night. Even people who are not fans of garlic bread find themselves reaching for another piece because the creamy filling makes it totally different from the usual. Try making a double batch if you are expecting a crowd — I learned the hard way that these go fast.

Freezer Meal Conversion

You can freeze the assembled but unbaked rolls on a lined tray until firm then store them in a zip top bag. Bake straight from the freezer by adding just two or three extra minutes to your oven time so they are deeply golden but pillowy inside.

This is a recipe you will want to make again and again—simple to prep and always a crowd pleaser. Enjoy these with friends or family any time you crave a melty, garlicky treat.

Common Recipe Questions

→ How do I make the cream cheese filling smooth?

Use softened cream cheese and beat it thoroughly with sugar and heavy cream until smooth and fluffy.

→ Can I use store-bought dinner rolls?

Yes, pre-made dinner rolls work well for this dish and save time without sacrificing texture.

→ What can I substitute for parsley?

Chopped chives or green onions offer a similar freshness if parsley is unavailable.

→ Is it necessary to use Parmesan?

Parmesan adds extra depth, but you can skip it or replace it with another hard cheese if preferred.

→ How long should I bake the bread?

Bake at 350°F for 5-10 minutes, or until the tops become nicely golden and the filling is warmed through.