Hot Honey Butter Cream Cheese Stuffed Bagel Recipe

Name: Hot Honey Butter Cream Cheese Stuffed Bagel
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 1
Ingredients: 1 bagel; 1 ounce cream cheese, cut in 8 slices; 1 tablespoon hot honey, or regular honey, plus more for drizzle; 1 tablespoon melted butter; Flaky salt (optional)

Cook Time: 5 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was created with the original yield in mind. Ingredient quantities adjust automatically, but cooking times and steps remain the same. Scaling may not always be perfect.

1 bagel
1 ounce cream cheese, cut into 8 slices
1 tablespoon hot honey or regular honey, plus extra for drizzling
1 tablespoon butter
Flaky salt, optional

Directions

Preheat your air fryer to 390F (199C) following the manufacturer's instructions.
Using a sharp knife, make 8 shallow cuts around the bagel, careful not to slice all the way through. These small openings will hold the cream cheese.
Insert a slice of cream cheese into each crevice around the bagel.
In a small bowl, combine the honey and melted butter. Brush the mixture generously over the stuffed bagel. Sprinkle lightly with flaky salt if desired.
Place the bagel in the air fryer and cook until golden brown, about 5 to 7 minutes.
Once done, remove the bagel and drizzle with additional honey if you like a sweeter finish.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 820
Total Fat: 24g (31%)
Saturated Fat: 14g (69%)
Cholesterol: 59mg (20%)
Sodium: 1067mg (46%)
Total Carbohydrate: 129g (47%)
Dietary Fiber: 3g (12%)
Total Sugars: 36g
Protein: 24g (48%)
Vitamin C: 0mg (0%)
Calcium: 492mg (38%)
Iron: 8mg (42%)
Potassium: 276mg (6%)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Nutrient information is based on available data and may not cover all ingredients. Consult a healthcare professional if following a medically restrictive diet.

History and Origins of the Hot Honey Butter Cream Cheese Stuffed Bagel

The bagel itself has a rich history, tracing back to Eastern Europe, particularly Poland, where it was a staple among Jewish communities as early as the 17th century. Bagels were originally boiled and then baked, giving them their characteristic chewy texture. The modern twist of stuffing a bagel with cream cheese and drizzling it with honey is a contemporary American innovation, reflecting the countrys love for sweet-savory combinations. The addition of hot honey is a nod to recent culinary trends in the United States, where chefs and home cooks alike experiment with combining heat and sweetness in classic comfort foods.

Regional Variations

While bagels are widely consumed across the U.S., New York and Philadelphia are especially renowned for their distinctive bagel styles. New York bagels tend to be dense and chewy, while Philadelphia bagels are slightly larger and softer. The hot honey butter cream cheese stuffed version is more commonly found in metropolitan areas and trendy cafes where inventive breakfast options are popular. Some variations may include regional honey blends, such as Tupelo or Wildflower honey in the South, adding subtle local flavors to the dish.

Distinguishing Features Compared to Similar Dishes

This recipe stands out from traditional cream cheese-stuffed bagels due to the combination of hot honey and butter, which caramelizes during cooking, creating a sweet-spicy glaze. Unlike a classic bagel with plain cream cheese or a simple honey-drizzled version, the addition of heat from the hot honey elevates the flavor profile, providing a contrast between the smooth, tangy cream cheese and the crisp, sweet exterior. It is also different from other stuffed bagels that may include savory ingredients like smoked salmon or bacon, focusing instead on the sweet-savory balance.

Typical Serving Locations

Hot honey butter cream cheese stuffed bagels are usually served in modern cafes, brunch spots, and artisanal bakeries. They are a popular choice for breakfast menus, weekend brunches, or as a decadent snack. Some specialty food trucks and breakfast chains have also embraced this trend, offering it as a signature item paired with coffee or tea. Its visually appealing presentation makes it a favored option for social media-friendly food photography.

Interesting Facts

Air fryers, which are commonly used to prepare this recipe, have surged in popularity for home cooking due to their ability to crisp foods quickly without deep frying.
The concept of hot honey was popularized by chef Brian Edmunds in Nashville, Tennessee, blending chili-infused heat with the natural sweetness of honey.
This bagel represents a trend of modern comfort food reinvention, where traditional dishes are upgraded with unexpected flavors.
The stuffed bagel format has inspired other creative fillings, from Nutella to spicy sriracha cream cheese, reflecting the endless versatility of this simple bread item.
Pairing sweet and spicy flavors is not only appealing to the taste buds but also enhances the aromatic experience, making it a multisensory treat.

FAQ about Hot Honey Butter Cream Cheese Stuffed Bagel Recipe

It is best to consume the Hot Honey Butter Cream Cheese Stuffed Bagel immediately for the best flavor and texture. However, if you have leftovers, store the stuffed bagel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. Reheat it in an air fryer or oven for a few minutes to restore its crispy texture.

While the bagel is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components in advance. You can slice the cream cheese, mix the honey and butter, and store them separately in the fridge. When ready to eat, assemble the bagel and air fry it.

Yes, you can bake the stuffed bagel in a regular oven. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the bagel for about 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

You can use any honey you prefer. If you don't have hot honey, you can mix regular honey with a small amount of chili flakes or hot sauce to create a spicy-sweet version.

Yes, you can substitute cream cheese with other spreads like ricotta, mascarpone, or even flavored soft cheese, depending on your preference.

To make this recipe vegan, use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and swap regular butter for a plant-based butter. For honey, you can use agave nectar or maple syrup as a substitute.

A classic plain bagel works well, but you can also use any type of bagel you prefer, such as sesame, everything, or whole wheat. Choose one that is sturdy enough to hold the cream cheese and honey butter filling.

While it's not ideal to freeze the stuffed bagel with the cream cheese inside, you can freeze the bagel after slicing and filling it. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and air fry or bake it as usual.

Yes, you can customize your stuffed bagel with additional toppings like crushed nuts, chocolate chips, or fresh herbs. Feel free to experiment with different flavor combinations!