Ultimate Bakery-Style Cheesy Everything Bagel Spinach Croissants (Easy 20-Minute Recipe!)

Imagine a rich, buttery, flaky croissant, but taken to an extraordinary new level. These everything bagel spinach croissants aren’t just a treat; they’re an experience – tasting exactly like they emerged from the ovens of your favorite artisan bakery! The secret to this gourmet delight lies in their irresistible filling: a creamy, savory blend of spinach and cheeses, perfectly complemented by the distinctive crunch and flavor of everything bagel seasoning. Best of all, this incredible breakfast or brunch idea requires just 5 main ingredients and a mere 20 minutes of your time, making it the perfect solution for a quick weekday indulgence or an impressive weekend spread. Get ready to transform humble store-bought croissants into a culinary masterpiece that will delight your senses and impress your guests.

During my time as a pastry chef, crafting perfectly stuffed croissants was a daily ritual, a labor of love that resulted in golden, flaky perfections. The sheer joy and satisfaction these savory pastries brought to customers always stuck with me, inspiring me to bring that same bakery-quality experience right into your home kitchen. That’s why I knew a recipe for irresistible spinach-stuffed croissants absolutely had to be a centerpiece here on Cambrea Bakes!

This particular recipe for cheesy spinach croissants takes that classic concept and elevates it with incredible ease. We start with high-quality, buttery store-bought croissants – no need to spend hours on lamination! These are then generously filled with a velvety, rich spinach and cheese concoction that melts beautifully in the oven. Finally, they’re crowned with a generous sprinkle of everything but the bagel seasoning, adding an incredible textural contrast and a burst of savory flavor that makes each bite unforgettable.

While these croissants are designed for speed and convenience, if you ever find yourself with a bit more time and a craving for something equally delightful, our spinach artichoke stuffed pretzels are another fantastic savory baking project that’s definitely worth exploring!

Why These Cheesy Spinach Croissants Will Become Your New Favorite

There are countless reasons to fall in love with these cheesy everything bagel spinach croissants. They perfectly encapsulate that desirable “bakery fresh” taste and texture, but with the convenience of a homemade recipe. Here’s why they’re destined to become a staple in your kitchen:

• Unbelievably Easy & Quick: Forget complicated baking techniques. With just 5 core ingredients and a total time of 20 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up a batch of these savory delights even on the busiest mornings. It’s truly a game-changer for homemade breakfast.
• Gourmet Bakery Quality at Home: The combination of flaky, buttery croissant, rich spinach and cheese filling, and crunchy everything bagel topping creates a sophisticated flavor profile that rivals any artisan bakery. You’ll be proud to serve these!
• Versatile for Any Occasion: While they shine as a quick breakfast or an elegant brunch centerpiece, these croissants are also fantastic as a light lunch, a satisfying snack, or even an appetizer for entertaining. Their savory goodness makes them suitable for any time of day.
• Irresistibly Flavorful: The creamy blend of mozzarella and cream cheese with seasoned spinach is a match made in heaven. The garlic and onion powder elevate the savory notes, while the everything bagel seasoning adds a delightful pop of sesame, poppy, garlic, and onion in every bite.
• Customizable to Your Taste: While perfect as is, this recipe also serves as a fantastic base for customization. You can easily tweak the cheeses, add other herbs, or even introduce a hint of spice to make them uniquely yours.
• A Fantastic Way to Enjoy Spinach: For those who struggle to incorporate more greens into their diet, this is a delicious and cheesy way to enjoy the nutritional benefits of spinach without feeling like a chore.

Once you try these, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them!

Key Ingredients for Perfect Spinach Croissants & Expert Tips

Achieving bakery-level perfection with minimal effort comes down to understanding your ingredients and employing a few simple tricks. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and how to get the best results:

• Frozen Spinach: The convenience of frozen spinach is unmatched for this recipe. However, the most crucial step is to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then squeeze out ALL of the excess liquid. This prevents the filling from becoming watery and ensures a rich, creamy texture. You can use paper towels or a cheesecloth for this. If you prefer fresh spinach, wilt about 1.5-2 pounds down, cool it, and then thoroughly squeeze out the liquid before chopping.
• Butter Croissants: This is where the magic truly begins. Opt for high-quality, pre-baked butter croissants from your local bakery or grocery store. Stores like Costco often have excellent, large croissants that are perfect for stuffing, especially if you’re making a larger batch. Look for croissants that are a light golden color, as they will deepen in color during baking. This ensures they don’t over-brown while the filling heats up.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: For the ultimate melty, gooey cheese pull, it is highly recommended to shred your own block of mozzarella cheese. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can prevent them from melting smoothly. Freshly shredded mozzarella guarantees that creamy, stretchy texture we all crave. You can also experiment with a mix of mozzarella and parmesan, or even gruyere for a nuttier flavor.
• Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese is key for a smooth, lump-free filling. If your cream cheese is cold, pop it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing. This ensures it blends seamlessly with the other ingredients, creating that luscious, rich base.
• Mayonnaise: A small amount of mayonnaise adds an extra layer of creaminess and a subtle tang to the filling, balancing the richness of the cheeses. Don’t skip it, as it contributes significantly to the overall texture and flavor.
• Seasonings (Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Salt, Black Pepper): These pantry staples are essential for building the savory foundation of the spinach filling. Adjust the amounts to your taste, but they are crucial for a well-rounded flavor.
• Honey: A light brush of warmed honey before baking gives the croissants a beautiful golden sheen and a subtle sweetness that beautifully contrasts the savory filling and the everything bagel seasoning. It’s optional but highly recommended for that “bakery finish.” Maple syrup can be a good substitute.
• Everything But The Bagel Seasoning: This beloved seasoning blend (typically made of white and black sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and flaky sea salt) is the crowning glory of these croissants. It adds incredible flavor, aroma, and a satisfying textural crunch. If you don’t have it, you can make your own blend or simply use sesame seeds and a pinch of garlic powder and sea salt.

Table of Contents

How to Make These Irresistible Croissants

Crafting these delectable spinach croissants is surprisingly straightforward, turning a simple store-bought item into a gourmet experience. Follow these easy steps for perfect results every time:

STEP ONE: Prepare the Creamy Cheesy Spinach Filling. Begin by thoroughly squeezing all excess liquid from your thawed frozen spinach. This step is critical to prevent a soggy filling. In a large mixing bowl, combine the well-drained spinach with the shredded mozzarella cheese (remember, freshly shredded is best for melting!), softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix vigorously until all ingredients are fully incorporated and you have a smooth, creamy filling with no lumps of cream cheese. Set aside.

STEP TWO: Slice the Croissants for Stuffing. Take each buttery croissant and, using a sharp serrated knife, carefully slice it open almost fully, but not all the way through the back hinge. You want to create a generous pocket without completely separating the two halves, allowing it to act like a delicious little sandwich. This design helps keep the filling securely inside. Once sliced, arrange your croissants on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between each one.

STEP THREE: Generously Stuff the Croissants. Now for the best part! Carefully spoon or use a small spatula to fill each of the eight croissants with an even amount of the cheesy spinach mixture. Spread the filling from end to end, ensuring it reaches into all the nooks and crannies. Don’t be shy with the filling, but avoid overstuffing, as some cheese might ooze out during baking (though a little ooze is often welcomed!). Gently press the top half of the croissant down slightly to secure the filling.

STEP FOUR: Glaze, Season, & Bake to Golden Perfection! Warm the honey slightly in the microwave for a few seconds until it’s easily brushable. Using a pastry brush, lightly coat the tops of each stuffed croissant with the warm honey. Immediately and generously sprinkle with everything but the bagel seasoning, ensuring good coverage. Bake in your preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8-12 minutes, or until the croissant tops are a deep golden brown, and the cheesy spinach filling is wonderfully hot and bubbly. The aroma alone will be tantalizing! Serve these golden beauties immediately for the best experience.

Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Brunch

These cheesy everything bagel spinach croissants are a showstopper on their own, but pairing them with the right accompaniments can transform a simple meal into a memorable feast. Here are some ideas to make your breakfast or brunch truly special:

• Classic Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of freshly brewed coffee, a creamy latte, or a soothing herbal tea is the perfect partner to the rich, savory flavors of the croissant.
• Fresh Fruit Medley: The vibrant sweetness and acidity of fresh berries, sliced melon, or citrus segments provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cheese and pastry.
• Mimosa or Bellini: For a celebratory brunch, a sparkling mimosa (orange juice and champagne) or a bellini (peach puree and prosecco) adds a touch of elegance and festivity.
• Light Green Salad: A simple side salad with mixed greens, a light vinaigrette, and perhaps some cherry tomatoes offers a refreshing and healthy balance.
• Tomato Soup: For a heartier option, especially on a cooler day, a small bowl of creamy tomato soup makes for a comforting dip or side dish.
• Poached or Scrambled Eggs: If you want to boost the protein content, a perfectly poached egg or a side of fluffy scrambled eggs would complement the croissants beautifully.
• Yogurt Parfait: A layered yogurt parfait with granola and fruit provides another fresh and delightful addition to your spread.

Whether served as the star of the show or part of a larger spread, these croissants are guaranteed to impress!

Delicious Variations and Customization Ideas

While the original recipe is absolutely perfect, don’t hesitate to get creative and customize these cheesy spinach croissants to suit your personal preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some ideas to inspire your culinary exploration:

• Cheese Swaps:
  • Feta & Mozzarella: Add crumbled feta cheese to the filling for a salty, tangy Mediterranean twist.
  • Parmesan Power: Incorporate some grated Parmesan cheese for a sharper, nuttier flavor profile.
  • Gruyere Goodness: For a more sophisticated taste, a touch of shredded Gruyere cheese will add a wonderful depth and nuttiness.
  • Spicy Jack: If you like a little heat, a bit of shredded Pepper Jack cheese will add a subtle kick.
• Add More Veggies:
  • Artichoke Hearts: Mimic the classic spinach artichoke dip by adding finely chopped, well-drained canned or jarred artichoke hearts to the filling.
  • Sun-Dried Tomatoes: For a burst of intense, sweet-tart flavor, mix in some finely chopped oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes (drained well).
  • Roasted Red Peppers: Chopped roasted red peppers (from a jar) would add a lovely smoky and sweet note.
  • Caramelized Onions: Sautéed and caramelized onions can bring a deep, savory sweetness that pairs wonderfully with spinach and cheese.
• Herb Enhancements:
  • Fresh Herbs: Stir in finely chopped fresh dill, chives, or parsley into the filling for a brighter, fresher taste.
  • Dried Italian Herbs: A pinch of Italian seasoning can add an aromatic depth to the spinach mixture.
• Spice it Up:
  • Red Pepper Flakes: For a gentle warmth, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling.
  • A Dash of Hot Sauce: A few drops of your favorite hot sauce can give the filling an extra zing.
• Alternative Toppings:
  • Sesame Seeds: If you don’t have everything bagel seasoning, simple white or black sesame seeds still offer a nice crunch and nutty flavor.
  • Garlic & Herb Blend: Any savory garlic and herb blend can be sprinkled on top instead.
  • Poppy Seeds: Just poppy seeds with a little flaky salt can also work well.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and discover your new favorite combination!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some common questions you might have about making these delicious cheesy spinach croissants:

Q: Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

A: Yes, you can! You’ll need about 1.5 to 2 pounds of fresh spinach, which you should cook down until wilted. Once cooled, it’s crucial to squeeze out as much moisture as possible, just like with frozen spinach, to prevent a watery filling. Then, finely chop it before adding to the cheese mixture.

Q: Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! The cheesy spinach filling can be prepared a day or two in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to stuff the croissants. This is a great way to save time on busy mornings.

Q: What kind of croissants work best for this recipe?

A: High-quality, buttery, pre-baked croissants are ideal. Look for ones that are a light golden color from your local bakery or grocery store’s bakery section. Larger croissants tend to hold the filling better than smaller ones. Costco often has excellent options.

Q: I don’t have “Everything Bagel Seasoning.” What can I use instead?

A: No problem! You can either make your own blend (equal parts white sesame seeds, black sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried minced garlic, dried minced onion, and flaky sea salt) or simply use a sprinkle of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or even just a little garlic powder and flaky salt for a similar savory crunch.

Q: Can I add meat to the filling?

A: While this recipe is vegetarian, you could certainly add cooked, crumbled bacon, finely diced ham, or even shredded chicken to the filling for a heartier option. Just be sure any meat is fully cooked and cooled before mixing it in.

Q: How do I prevent the cheese from oozing out too much?

A: To minimize oozing, make sure not to overstuff the croissants. Also, ensure the croissant is sliced about 3/4 of the way through, leaving a strong “hinge” at the back. Gently pressing the top half down after filling can help seal it. A little melted cheese on the baking sheet is normal and delicious!

If you tried this or any other recipe on my website, please let me know how it went in the comments; I love hearing from you! Also, please leave a star rating while you’re there! You can also tag me on Instagram or Facebook so I can check it out!

Cheesy Everything Spinach Croissants

5 from 2 votes

– by
Cambrea Gordon

---

Rich, buttery, flaky, and stuffed with cheese, these everything bagel spinach croissants taste just like they came from your favorite bakery! With just 5 ingredients and 20 minutes, they are the perfect quick and easy breakfast or brunch idea.

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Prep Time:

10 minutes
mins

Cook Time:

8 minutes
mins

Total Time:

18 minutes
mins

Course:
Breakfast, brunch

Cuisine:
American

Servings:

8
croissants

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Ingredients

• 
  ▢
  
  
  1 ⅔
  cup
  frozen spinach,
  thawed overnight in the fridge and thoroughly squeezed of all liquid

• 
  ▢
  
  
  6
  oz
  cream cheese,
  softened

• 
  ▢
  
  
  1/3
  cup
  mayonnaise

• 
  ▢
  
  
  1 1/2
  cups
  shredded mozzarella cheese
  (preferably freshly shredded from a block)

• 
  ▢
  
  
  3/4
  tsp
  onion powder

• 
  ▢
  
  
  1/2
  tsp
  garlic powder

• 
  ▢
  
  
  1/2
  tsp
  fine sea salt

• 
  ▢
  
  
  ¼
  tsp
  black pepper

• 
  ▢
  
  
  8
  butter croissants

• 
  ▢
  
  
  1
  tbsp
  honey

• 
  ▢
  
  
  1 tbsp + 2 tsp
  everything but the bagel seasoning

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 375 F/190 C and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
• Squeeze the thawed frozen spinach between a stack of paper towels or a clean kitchen towel to remove all of the excess liquid. This is crucial for a creamy, not watery, filling.
  1 ⅔ cup (247 g) frozen spinach
• In a medium bowl, mix together the well-drained spinach, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, shredded mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth.
  6 oz (164 g) cream cheese,
  1/3 cup (80 g) mayonnaise,
  1 1/2 cups (132 g) shredded mozzarella cheese,
  3/4 tsp onion powder,
  1/2 tsp garlic powder,
  1/2 tsp fine sea salt,
  ¼ tsp black pepper
• Use a serrated knife to carefully slice open each croissant about 3/4 of the way, creating a pocket for the filling. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheet.
  8 butter croissants
• Use a spatula or spoon to evenly distribute the spinach and cheese filling among all 8 croissants, filling the center generously.
• Warm the honey in the microwave for a few seconds until it’s slightly runny and easy to brush.
  1 tbsp honey
• Working quickly, brush the warmed honey across the tops of the croissants, then immediately sprinkle generously with everything but the bagel seasoning for optimal adherence and flavor.
  1 tbsp + 2 tsp everything but the bagel seasoning
• Bake the croissants in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the tops are beautifully golden brown and the cheesy filling is melted, hot, and bubbly. Serve them immediately and enjoy every rich, flaky bite!

Notes

• Croissants: For the best results and convenience, high-quality, pre-baked butter croissants are recommended. Consider purchasing from a local bakery or a store like Costco, especially if preparing for a larger group. Choose croissants that are lighter in color so they can achieve a perfect golden brown in your oven without burning.
• Frozen spinach: Always ensure frozen spinach is completely thawed and thoroughly squeezed to remove all excess water. This step is critical to prevent the filling from becoming watery and compromising the texture.
• Mozzarella cheese: For the ultimate gooey, smooth melt, avoid pre-shredded cheese. It’s best to buy a block of mozzarella and shred it yourself, as pre-shredded varieties often contain starches that inhibit proper melting. You can also mix in some freshly grated Parmesan for added depth of flavor.
• Cream cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing. This will guarantee a silky, lump-free filling that blends perfectly with the other ingredients.

• Because the filling contains dairy products like cream cheese and mayonnaise, any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within 1-2 days.
• Although they are best served the day of, you can easily reheat the leftovers. Place them on an unlined sheet pan and heat them in a 350 F oven for 5-6 minutes or until warmed through and slightly crisp again. Avoid microwaving to maintain texture.

Serving:
1
serving

|

Calories:
451
kcal

|

Carbohydrates:
32
g

|

Protein:
12
g

|

Fat:
31
g

|

Saturated Fat:
15
g

|

Polyunsaturated Fat:
5
g

|

Monounsaturated Fat:
8
g

|

Trans Fat:
0.02
g

|

Cholesterol:
80
mg

|

Sodium:
646
mg

|

Potassium:
232
mg

|

Fiber:
2
g

|

Sugar:
10
g

|

Vitamin A:
4669
IU

|

Vitamin C:
2
mg

|

Calcium:
192
mg

|

Iron:
2
mg

The calorie information provided for the recipe is an estimate. The accuracy of the calories listed is not guaranteed.

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