Buzz
Photo Credit: Daniel Grizelj/Getty ImagesHaving some bagels ready for a delicious breakfast sandwich or to pair with cream cheese and smoked salmon is always a great idea. But what use are these fluffy, chewy bagels if they end up stale or covered in mold before you get the chance to enjoy them? While fresh bagels typically stay at their best for a few days, they’re best eaten the day you get them and don't last much longer. However, knowing how to properly store them can significantly extend their freshness, whether by days, weeks, or even months. Keep reading for our tips on preserving bagels so they stay soft and fresh.
How to Store Whole Bagels
You picked up a dozen bagels from your local bakery or the grocery store, but have only eaten two. What do you do next? If you're aiming to store whole bagels for a short period, the best way is to place them in a paper bag. You can leave the bag on the counter or in the pantry, as long as the bagels stay at room temperature. To keep the bagels fresh, make sure to fold or roll the top of the bag tightly to keep air out. This method works well for storing whole bagels overnight, keeping them fresh for one or two days, or up to three if you're lucky. For extra freshness, you can place the bagels in a sealed plastic bag at room temperature. Be sure to let freshly baked bagels cool completely before sealing them in the bag. Also, remove any extra air to prevent them from becoming hard. Whole bagels stored this way can stay fresh for around six days.
How to Store Sliced Bagels
If you plan to finish your bagels in a few days, it’s better to keep them whole, as slicing them exposes more surface area to oxygen, causing them to harden faster. However, if you absolutely must slice a bagel, the best way to store the halves is by using the plastic bag method mentioned above. Simply place the sliced bagels in a tightly sealed plastic bag at room temperature, squeezing out any excess air before sealing. This method will keep the slices fresh for about three days, though you may want to toast them before enjoying.
How to Freeze Bagels
If you've bought a dozen fresh bagels and don't expect to finish them within a few days, your best option is to freeze any extras as soon as possible. To freeze bagels, slice them in half and wrap each half individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep them from sticking together. Then, place the wrapped halves into a freezer-safe bag. When stored this way, bagels will stay fresh for about four months.
When you're ready to enjoy a bagel, simply remove the wrapping from each half and place it in a toaster or toaster oven for a few minutes, or until it’s heated through. Afterward, spread your favorite toppings on each half, and savor the deliciousness!
