Why adding water to your bagel before toasting creates the perfect crunch

The Science of Re-Crisping Bagels (Wet Bagels = Crisp Bagels) · 3:17 · Video: J. Kenji López-Alt · Watch at the source

In short: Toasting a bagel whole requires balancing a crispy exterior with a soft interior. Using a countertop toaster oven is superior to a conventional oven because it traps moisture more effectively, and adding steam can further enhance the result.

To achieve the ideal texture, a countertop toaster oven is the preferred tool. Its compact size allows it to heat up faster and retain moist air better than a standard oven, preventing the bagel from drying out completely during the toasting process.

While this method works in any toaster oven, steam-injected models—such as the BALMUDA The Toaster—are particularly effective at managing the environment to ensure the bagel remains moist inside while becoming crisp on the outside.

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