There’s nothing like the taste of a fresh bagel from your favorite local cafe—crispy on the outside, soft and chewy on the inside. But what happens when you bring home a half-dozen and can’t eat them all in one day? At Bagel Mill, we want your bagels to taste just as good tomorrow (and even next week) as they did when they were first baked. Here’s how to store and reheat them for maximum freshness.
Short-Term Storage: 1-2 Days
If you plan to eat your bagels within a day or two, storing them in a paper bag at room temperature is best. A paper bag helps prevent moisture buildup, which keeps the crust from becoming soggy. For extra protection, place the paper bag inside a plastic bag—but don’t seal it completely. This allows just enough airflow to preserve the texture without drying them out too quickly.
Long-Term Storage: Freezing Bagels
Want to keep your bagels for the long haul? Freezing is the way to go. Slice each bagel in half before freezing so they’re ready to toast straight from the freezer. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe zip-top bag. Label with the date to keep track—they’ll stay delicious for up to 3 months.
Reheating Tips: Bring Bagels Back to Life
To reheat a room-temperature bagel, lightly mist it with water and place it in a 350°F oven for about 5–10 minutes. This helps re-crisp the crust while warming the inside.
For frozen bagels, there are two great options:
- Toaster: Pop the sliced halves straight into the toaster. It’s quick and ideal if you like a crisp finish.
- Oven: No toaster? Wrap the frozen bagel in foil and bake at 350°F for about 15 minutes. For a crunchier crust, unwrap during the last few minutes.
Avoid the microwave—it tends to make bagels chewy in all the wrong ways.
Stop By Your Local Cafe, Bagel Mill!
Whether you’re enjoying your bagel at our local cafe or savoring it at home, following these storage and reheating tips will help preserve the same quality and flavor we’re proud to bake fresh every morning. Stop by Bagel Mill soon for your favorite bagel flavors—because great bagels are worth enjoying to the last bite!