Montreal Style Bagels
Montreal Style Bagels aren’t just breakfast—they’re a piece of Montreal’s soul, baked into every golden ring. Born in the heart of Quebec’s Jewish community, these iconic bagels carry a legacy of flavor and tradition. Smaller, sweeter, and more rustic than their New York counterparts, Montreal bagels are hand-rolled, poached in honeyed water, and crisped to perfection in wood-fired ovens.
Their charm lies in both their heritage and their unmistakable texture: chewy, subtly sweet, and kissed with smoke. From global food lovers to ambitious home bakers, these bagels have become a sought-after delicacy—and now, you can make them from scratch in your own kitchen.
What Sets Montreal Style Bagels Apart
These bagels boast a character all their own. Unlike the doughy density of New York bagels, Montreal’s version is boiled in sweetened water, yielding a faint caramel note. Then they’re baked until bronzed in a wood-fired oven, developing a crisp outer shell and rich aroma.
They’re also more petite, with a wide central hole and a tighter, chewier crumb. Every bite is a balance of texture and taste, ideal for spreading, topping, or savoring plain with a slather of warm butter.
Ingredients for Montreal Style Bagels
- 4 cups bread flour
- 1 ½ tsp instant yeast
- 1 ½ tsp salt
- 3 tbsp sugar
- 1 ¼ cups warm water (approx. 110°F)
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- ¼ cup honey (for boiling)
- Sesame or poppy seeds (optional)
How to Make Montreal Style Bagels
Step 1: Mix the Dough
Combine flour, sugar, salt, and yeast in a large bowl.
Whisk water, egg, and oil in a separate bowl.
Pour wet into dry, stirring until a sticky dough forms.
Step 2: Knead and Let Rise
Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Transfer to an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 60–90 minutes until doubled.
Step 3: Shape Your Bagels
Punch down the dough to release air.
Divide into 12 portions. Roll into balls, then poke a hole in each, stretching gently into rings.
Step 4: Boil and Top
Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C); line a baking sheet with parchment.
Boil water in a large pot and add honey.
Poach bagels for 1 minute per side.
Place on baking sheet, sprinkle with seeds while damp.
Step 5: Bake to Golden
Bake for 15–20 minutes until golden and crisp.
Cool on wire racks before serving warm or storing.
Bagel Basics
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Rise Time: 1 to 1.5 hours
- Bake Time: 15–20 minutes
- Total Time: 2.5 to 3 hours
- Calories: ~280 per bagel
- Yield: 12 bagels
Storage Tips
Let bagels cool completely.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days.
Freeze up to 3 months—toast from frozen or thaw at room temp.
Pro Tips for Perfect Montreal Bagels
1. Flour Matters
Opt for unbleached bread flour for traditional chew. Blend with whole wheat if you like a nuttier profile.
2. Sweeten Smart
Honey adds signature flavor—don’t skip it. For a vegan twist, use maple syrup or brown sugar.
3. Master the Boil
That quick honey boil locks in sweetness and chew. Don’t rush or skip this step.
4. Elevate with Toppings
Traditionalists love sesame or poppy seeds. Adventurous bakers might reach for za’atar, everything seasoning, or cinnamon sugar.
5. Nail the Bake
A blazing hot oven (425°F–475°F) ensures golden, crispy exteriors and soft, dense centers.
Creative Variations
Gluten-Free Delight
Substitute with almond flour or gluten-free blends. Adjust water as needed—these flours behave differently.
Plant-Based Perfection
Replace egg with flax or chia seed slurry. Swap honey for maple syrup for a fully vegan option.
Add Some Heat
Mix crushed red pepper or cayenne into the dough or sprinkle on top before baking for a fiery twist.
What to Pair with Montreal Bagels
Classic Companions
Enjoy with softened butter, cream cheese, or lox. A sprinkle of capers and thinly sliced red onion elevates the classic combo.
Breakfast & Brunch
Top with scrambled eggs, avocado, or sliced cheese. Add fruit on the side for a complete morning meal.
Sip Smart
Pair with dark coffee or a citrusy juice. Herbal tea also complements the bagel’s sweet-savory nature.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Montreal bagels unique?
Their honey boil, smaller size, smoky bake, and dense, chewy texture set them apart from other styles.
How long do they last?
At room temp: 2–3 days. In the freezer: up to 3 months.
Do I need a mixer?
No—these bagels can be fully kneaded by hand. It just takes elbow grease.
Can I switch up the toppings?
Yes! Think outside tradition: garlic flakes, onion bits, seeds, or even coarse salt work beautifully.
Are vegan versions possible?
Absolutely. Use maple syrup instead of honey and egg substitutes like flax or chia.
Conclusion
Montreal Style Bagels are more than a recipe—they’re a ritual. A crunchy crust gives way to a chewy interior kissed with sweetness, crafted through time-honored technique. Whether you stick with sesame-topped tradition or explore bold flavors, each batch is a celebration of heritage and homemade comfort. Fire up that oven, embrace the process, and bite into a true taste of Montreal—right from your own kitchen.
