How to Store Bagels and Keep Them Fresh for as Long as Possible

Bagels are a breakfast classic—whether you grab one on the go with your coffee or enjoy them as part of a relaxed weekend brunch.

Use these expert storage tips and tricks to keep your bagels fresh for as long as possible.

How to Store Bagels Properly

Bagels have a distinct texture and should be stored carefully to maintain their freshness. Avoid leaving them exposed to air for extended periods.

For best results, store your bagels on the counter in a paper or zip-top bag (but make sure they’re cool before bagging them to prevent sogginess).

Do not store bagels in the fridge. Refrigerating them can cause them to stale faster as the starch molecules will crystallize at lower temperatures.   

How Long Do Bagels Stay Fresh?

When stored properly, bagels can stay fresh and soft for up to five days at room temperature and can be kept in the freezer for about three months.

Bagels found in sealed plastic bags at the store typically contain preservatives, which help them stay fresh longer. Homemade bagels, while tastier, usually won’t last as long.

Is Freezing Bagels a Good Idea?

Yes, you can freeze bagels! Freezing is an excellent way to keep them fresh, and it’s actually how some bagels are sold in frozen form.

How to Freeze Bagels

Before freezing your bagels, slice them in half horizontally. It’s much easier to do this now than trying to slice a frozen bagel later!

Wrap each half of the bagel in plastic wrap, foil, or wax paper to prevent them from sticking together while freezing. Place the wrapped halves in a sealable, freezer-safe bag. Freeze them for up to 3-4 months and thaw at room temperature when ready to eat.

What to Do With Leftover Bagels

Sometimes, you might end up with more bagels than you can finish during a weekend brunch.

Browse our collection of Creative Ways to Use Leftover Bagels for tasty ideas and inspiration.