Cream Cheese Stuffed Baguette Delight

This delightful cream cheese stuffed baguette is a culinary treat that's perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a savory snack. Imagine a crispy baguette, hollowed out and filled with a creamy, savory mixture, baked to perfection. This dish combines the rich flavors of cream cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and your choice of ham or bacon, creating a harmonious blend of taste and texture. The addition of garlic brings a subtle depth of flavor, enhancing the overall experience. It's not only a delicious meal but also a visually appealing one, making it perfect for entertaining guests. The recipe is simple enough for beginner cooks but impressive enough for seasoned chefs to appreciate. Customize with your favorite herbs or swap in smoked salmon for an elegant twist. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with fresh greens, this stuffed baguette is bound to become a household favorite.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 baguette
• 180g cream cheese
• 4 slices of ham or bacon
• 4 sun-dried tomatoes
• 1 large egg
• 1-2 cloves of garlic

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 25 minutes (15 minutes preparation, 10 minutes cooking)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Take the baguette and carefully hollow out the soft interior, leaving a long trench for the filling.
3. Mince the garlic cloves and set them aside.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine your cream cheese with the egg until smooth and creamy.
5. Chop the sun-dried tomatoes and the ham or bacon into small pieces.
6. Fold the chopped ingredients into the cream cheese mixture, along with the minced garlic.
7. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, adding a touch of mixed herbs if desired.
8. Place the hollowed-out baguette on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. Carefully spoon the cheese mixture into the baguette trench, ensuring it's packed tightly.
10. Place the stuffed baguette into the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes or until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
11. While baking, keep an eye to ensure the filling doesn't overflow.
12. Once cooked, remove the baguette from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
13. Slice the baguette into portions for serving, using a sharp knife to maintain the shape.
14. Observe the melting cheese and enjoy the aroma of the baked bread.
15. Serve hot for the best culinary experience.
16. Consider garnishing with fresh basil or parsley for added color and flavor.
17. For a zesty twist, drizzle a bit of balsamic reduction over the slices before serving.
18. This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.
19. Enjoy discovering your favorite variation of this versatile recipe.
20. Make sure to share this delectable treat with friends and family!

Tips

• To make it vegetarian, skip the ham or bacon and add more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
• For extra heat, add a pinch of chili flakes to the cream cheese mix.
• Ensure the baguette is well-patched with cream cheese so no filling spills out during baking.

Nutritions

• Approximately 300 calories per serving
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbs: 20g

Variations

• Swap sun-dried tomatoes with roasted red peppers for a sweeter flavor.
• Use smoked salmon instead of ham for a refined twist.
• Try a combination of cream cheese and goat cheese for a tangier filling.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside a fresh arugula salad with balsamic vinaigrette.
• Pair with a chilled glass of white wine for a refreshing contrast.
• Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped chives or basil leaves before serving.

Best Places

• Le Pain Quotidien - Offers fresh organic bread and delightful spreads. Location: 8 Rue des Petits Carreaux, Paris, France.
• Breads Bakery - Known for a variety of artisanal breads and pastries. Location: 18 E 16th St, New York, USA.
• Julius Meinl am Graben - Serves classic European bakery delicacies. Location: Graben 19, 1010 Wien, Austria.
• Poilâne Bakery - Renowned for traditional French-style breads. Location: 8 Rue du Cherche-Midi, Paris, France.
• Tartine Bakery - Offers innovative pastries and baked goods in a cozy setting. Location: 600 Guerrero St, San Francisco, USA.
• Pasticceria Marchesi - Serves high-quality Italian pastries and baked goods. Location: Via Santa Maria alla Porta 11/a, Milano, Italy.
• GAIL's Bakery - Specializes in handmade cakes, pastries, and fresh breads. Location: 16 Bayley St, Bloomsbury, London, UK.
• Vegan Croissanterie - Offers vegan-friendly pastries and baguettes. Location: 28 Rue de Charonne, Paris, France.
• Flour Bakery + Café - Widely appreciated for its inventive sweet and savory baked goods. Location: 12 Farnsworth St, Boston, USA.
• Hofbäckerei Edegger-Tax - The oldest bakery in Graz, known for traditional Austrian bread. Location: Hofgasse 6, 8010 Graz, Austria.