I often find myself getting a ton of bagels from places like Fress Deli — click here if you're curious — and then having to store them. The good news is that keeping bagels from going stale is not too difficult. Here's how you can do it:
Cool Before Storing: Before you store fresh bagels, let them cool completely. Storing warm bagels can cause condensation inside the bag, making them soggy.
Avoid the Fridge: You might think the fridge keeps bagels fresh, but it can actually make them stale faster. The cold environment dries out the bagel quickly. So, keep them out of the fridge.
Airtight Bags are Key: Once cooled, place your bagels in an airtight plastic bag or resealable freezer bag. To avoid them from drying out, expel as much air as you can.
Reheating: When you're ready to eat, a quick toast or bake can rejuvenate a bagel's crispy crust and soft interior.
Remember, the key is to strike a balance between moisture control and preventing dryness. If you need to store the bagel for longer, you can freeze it. It'll typically stay good for up to a month in the freezer.
