Types of Bagels: A Guide to This Delicious Breakfast Staple

Bagels come in a variety of flavors, including sweet options like blueberry, cinnamon raisin, and chocolate chip, as well as savory types like plain, everything, and onion. For a creative twist, there are bagels like pretzel, jalapeño cheddar, and sun-dried tomato. Let's dive into them!

Bagels are more than just breakfast or brunch foods; they’re an experience. With a perfectly chewy texture and endless flavor options, bagels hold a special place in our hearts (and stomachs). Whether sweet or salty, classic or inventive, there’s a type of bagel for every occasion.

As we celebrate National Bagel Day on January 15th, let’s dive into their popular flavors, and inspire you to try something new. Get ready to fall in love with bagels all over again!

Sweet Bagels

For anyone with a sweet tooth, sweet bagels add a delightful touch of indulgence to your day. These bagels aren't just a great option for breakfast food—they’re a treat that can brighten any moment. Here are some of the most beloved options:

1. Blueberry Bagel

Bursting with tangy sweetness, blueberry bagels combine chewy goodness with the vibrant flavor of blueberries. They’re perfect with a dollop of cream cheese, a drizzle of honey, or even a swipe of lemon curd for an extra zest.

2. Cinnamon Raisin Bagel

The warm spices and bursts of sweet raisins in a cinnamon raisin bagel create a comforting classic. Spread on butter, cinnamon cream cheese, or even peanut butter for a deliciously satisfying snack.

3. Cranberry Bagel

Cranberry bagels offer a delightful tang that pairs beautifully with both sweet and savory spreads. Try them with herb cream cheese, brie, or even a touch of honey for a flavorful contrast.

4. Chocolate Chip Bagel

For a touch of indulgence, chocolate chip bagels are a must. With gooey melted chips baked into the dough, they’re a classical favorite! Pair them with cream cheese or enjoy them plain for a sweet moment of bliss.

5. French Toast Bagel

French toast bagels are a unique blend of cinnamon, sugar, and maple syrup flavors. They’re perfect with butter or a maple-flavored spread for a treat that’s both comforting and delicious.

Salty Bagels

If savory flavors are more your style, salty bagels are a satisfying and versatile choice. These timeless options pair wonderfully with a range of ingredients, whether you're in the mood for something light or hearty. Here are the classics:

6. Plain Bagel

The ultimate blank canvas, plain bagels are simple yet versatile. Top them with anything from creamy spreads like avocado or hummus to hearty fillings like smoked salmon or turkey.

7. Everything Bagel

A true classic, the everything bagel blends sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic, onion, and salt into one bold and flavorful bite. It's perfect for those who love a mix of textures and flavors in every mouthful.

8. Egg Bagel

Soft, golden, and slightly sweet, egg bagels have a subtle richness that pairs beautifully with cream cheese, smoked salmon, or even a fresh vegetable medley.

9. Poppy Seed Bagel

Lightly nutty with a delicate crunch, poppy seed bagels are a versatile choice. They complement both savory toppings like herbed cream cheese and sweet spreads like honey or jam.

10. Sesame Seed Bagel

The toasted nuttiness of sesame seeds elevates this bagel to a flavorful favorite. It pairs seamlessly with savory spreads, deli meats, or even a drizzle of olive oil.

11. Onion Bagel

Bursting with bold onion flavor, this bagel is a savory delight. Try it with cream cheese, lox, or your favorite deli meats for a satisfying and flavorful bite.

12. Garlic Bagel

Packed with savory garlic goodness, these bagels bring bold flavor to any pairing. Add cream cheese, sliced veggies, or grilled chicken for an irresistible combination.

13. Whole Wheat Bagel

For a healthier twist, whole wheat bagels offer a hearty, nutty flavor with a boost of fiber. They’re delicious with both savory toppings like avocado and sweet spreads like almond butter.

Going Beyond Common Flavors

Ready to explore bagels with a twist? These creative varieties blend flavors and cultures, transforming classic bagels into bold, exciting, and delicious new experiences.

Here are some innovative bagel flavors will excite your taste buds:

14. Pretzel Bagel

Combining the chewy texture of a bagel with the salty goodness of a soft pretzel, this variety is a standout. It’s perfect when paired with mustard, melted cheese, or even a hearty beer cheese dip for a fun twist.

15. Jalapeño Cheddar Bagel

Turn up the heat with this spicy favorite. Jalapeño cheddar bagels combine zesty jalapeños and creamy, melted cheddar for a flavorful kick that’s perfect with a dollop of sour cream or avocado.

16. Sun-Dried Tomato Bagel

Inspired by Mediterranean flavors, this bagel incorporates the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes. Pair it with basil cream cheese, fresh mozzarella, or even a drizzle of olive oil for a taste of the Mediterranean.

17. Asiago Cheese and Chive Bagel

Rich, nutty Asiago cheese and fragrant chives combine to create a truly savory bagel experience. Enjoy it with a smear of butter, cream cheese, or even a thin slice of prosciutto for a gourmet touch.

Are Bagels Healthier Than Bread?

Not necessarily! Whether a bagel is healthier than bread largely depends on the type of bagel and what you pair it with.

For instance, a whole wheat bagel topped with eggs and vegetables can be a nutritious, balanced meal. On the other hand, a sweet bagel loaded with chocolate chips or sugary spreads might be more of a treat than a health-conscious choice.

It’s also important to keep your overall diet in mind. Enjoying a sweet bagel at your office’s bagel celebration won’t derail your health goals, but eating one packed with cream cheese and sugar every morning might. The key is balance and variety in your meals.

Got Your Mouth Watering? Bring Bagels to Your Team with Picnic!

Bagels are more than just a snack—they’re a way to bring people together. Planning an office breakfast? Or maybe a celebratory brunch or a midday treat? Picnic makes it simple to treat your team to their favorite bagels.

Here’s how it works:

Each employee can pick their own bagel from a variety of options, ensuring everyone gets exactly what they love. From classic plain bagels to bold flavors like jalapeño cheddar, there’s something for every taste. 

Plus, we take care of dietary needs, offering gluten-free, vegan, and other tailored options to include everyone.

Once the orders are in, we handle the rest. Everything is delivered fresh and on time, individually packaged for convenience and care. No more worrying about logistics—just enjoy delicious bagels with your team.

Ready to elevate your office celebrations? Explore more at Picnic's blog and offer always the best for your team!