Montreal-style bagels are smaller, sweeter, and denser than traditional New York or Philadelphia bagels. They’re boiled in honey water and then baked, which gives them a distinctive flavor and crust. Montreal bagels are often served with cream cheese and lox, or as part of a breakfast sandwich. If you’re visiting Montreal, be sure to try Montreal Style Bagels | The Best Bagels in Town.
What Is A Montreal Style Bagel?
A Montreal-style bagel is a small, sweet, and dense type of bagel that is boiled in honey water and then baked. This gives the bagels their distinctive flavor and crust. Montreal bagels are often served with cream cheese and lox, or as part of a breakfast sandwich. If you’re visiting Montreal, be sure to try one of these delicious bagels.

A Little History Of Montreal Style Bagel
The Montreal-style bagel is a type of hand-rolled and wood-fired bagel originating in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. The Montreal bagel is smaller than the New York bagel, sweeter in taste, and denser in texture. It has a larger hole and is boiled in honey-sweetened water before being baked in a wood-fired oven.
The Montreal bagel was introduced to the city by Jewish immigrants from Hungary and Poland in the late 19th century. The first recorded use of the term “Montreal bagel” was in a Montreal newspaper in 1921. By the 1950s, there were more than 15 bakeries producing Montreal-style bagels in the city. The Montreal bagel has been described as “a cross between a bread and a pastry”, and is sometimes considered a cousin of the bialy.
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What Makes The Perfect Montreal-Style Bagel Topping Combination?
A combination of cream cheese, lox, onions, capers and tomatoes on a Montreal-style bagel makes for an unbeatable flavor. The sweet taste of the bagel combined with the salty and slightly acidic lox is a perfect match.
Adding in some chopped onions, capers and tomatoes adds a delicious crunchy texture to complete this classic combination. Top it all off with a generous schmear of cream cheese to make the perfect Montreal-style bagel. Give this classic topping combination a try and you won’t be disappointed.
How To Choose The Best Ingredients For Montreal Style Bagels?
When choosing ingredients for Montreal-style bagels, it’s important to select high-quality products. The best bagels are made with fresh, natural ingredients free from preservatives and additives.
It’s also important to look for the right texture when selecting your lox, cream cheese and toppings. Cream cheese should be rich and creamy, while lox should be thinly sliced with a slightly smokey flavor. Finally, the onions, capers and tomatoes should all have a crunchy texture that adds to the overall flavor of the bagel.

Ingredients Of Montreal Style Bagel
- 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 cup lukewarm water
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon malt powder or syrup
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water for egg wash
- Toppings of your choice such as sesame seeds, poppy seeds, etc.
Steps To Make Montreal Style Bagel
1. In a large bowl, combine yeast, sugar, and lukewarm water. Stir until yeast is dissolved and let stand for 5 minutes.
2. Add flour, malt powder or syrup, salt, and egg and mix until well combined. If the dough is too sticky, add additional flour 1 tablespoon at a time until it comes together.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
4. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.
5. Divide dough into 12-16 pieces and shape into bagels. Place on a greased baking sheet, cover, and let rise for another 20 minutes.
6. Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with toppings of your choice.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips For Making The Perfect Batch Montreal Style Bagels
If you’re looking to make Montreal-style bagels at home, here are a few tips that can help you achieve perfect results.
- First, it’s important to use high-gluten flour and let the dough rest after kneading. This allows the gluten in the flour to develop and makes for a denser and chewier bagel.
- Next, boiling the bagels in honey water before baking gives them a unique sweet flavor and chewy crust.
- Finally, be sure to bake the bagels at a high enough temperature (400°F) to create that perfect golden brown finish.
The Best Places To Get Montreal Style Bagels In The City
The best places to get Montreal style bagels in the city include St-Viateur Bagel, Fairmount Bagel, and Cheskie’s Bakery. St-Viateur bagels are known for their wood-fired flavor and are open 24/7. Fairmount has been making Montreal style bagels since 1919 and is the oldest in the city. Finally, Cheskie’s is a well known spot for Montreal-style bagels and other kosher baked goods.
All three of these locations are great places to get your hands on some delicious Montreal style bagels. No matter where you go, be sure to order a dozen of these delectable treats with some cream cheese and lox. You won’t regret it. Montreal style bagels are truly a unique food experience and one that you won’t soon forget. Enjoy your time in Montreal and happy eating.
So there you have it – the best places to get delicious Montreal-style bagels. Make sure to stop by one of these locations when you’re in town, or order them online for delivery. And when you’re done, make sure to share your experience with us on social media and let everyone know how much you enjoyed it.
Recipes For Classic Montreal Style Bagel Dishes
While eating a plain Montreal style bagel is delicious, there are plenty of recipes out there that take this classic to the next level. Here are some ideas for dishes you can make with Montreal-style bagels:

1. Lox and Cream Cheese Bagel Sandwich – This classic dish is simple yet oh-so-satisfying. Layer cream cheese, lox, capers, tomato slices, and red onion on a toasted bagel for a delicious breakfast or lunch.
2. Bagel Pizza – This is a great twist on the classic Italian dish. Top your Montreal style bagels with marinara sauce, cheese, pepperoni, bell peppers, mushrooms – whatever you like.
3. Montreal Style Bagel French Toast – Make a delicious french toast with some Montreal style bagels. Cut the bagels into slices and soak them in eggs, cinnamon, and milk before cooking in a pan for a unique breakfast.
4. Sweet Bagel Sandwiches – These make for a great snack or lunch. Spread cream cheese and your favorite jam on two slices of bagel, then add fresh fruits for a sweet and delicious treat.
5. Bagel Nachos – Spice up your typical nachos with Montreal style bagels. Toast the bagels, break them into pieces, then top with melted cheese and your favorite nacho toppings.
So there you have it – some great recipes to try with Montreal-style bagels. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or something more complex, these dishes are sure to hit the spot.
Variations On The Traditional Montreal Style Bagel Recipe
If you’re looking to mix things up, there are plenty of variations on the traditional Montreal style bagel recipe that you can try. Here are a few ideas:
1. Everything Bagels – These classic bagels are topped with a mixture of poppy seeds, sesame seeds, onion flakes, and garlic salt for a delicious and savory flavor.
2. Cinnamon Raisin Bagels – These sweet bagels are made with a blend of cinnamon and raisins for a unique twist on the classic Montreal style recipe.

3. Blueberry Bagels – Add some blueberries to your dough before baking for a delicious fruity bagel that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch.
4. Jalapeno Bagels – If you like a little kick to your bagel, try adding jalapenos for some heat.
5. Whole Wheat Bagels – For a healthier option, make your Montreal style bagels with whole wheat flour instead of the traditional white flour for an added boost of nutrition.
These are just a few of the variations you can try with Montreal style bagels. With so many possibilities, it’s easy to come up with your own unique recipes and create something truly special.
Serving Suggestions For Montreal Style Bagels
Once you’ve made your bagels, the possibilities for what to do with them are endless. Here are some ideas for dishes you can make:
1. Bagel Breakfast Sandwiches – Make a delicious breakfast sandwich with Montreal style bagels, eggs, cheese, and bacon or sausage.
2. Smoked Salmon Bagel Plate – Layer smoked salmon, capers, red onions, and cream cheese on a toasted bagel for an elegant yet simple dish.
3. Everything Bagel Bites – Cut your everything bagels into small cubes, then bake until crisp. Serve with a variety of dips for a delicious appetizer or snack.
4. Bagel Bruschetta – Toast your bagels and top with chopped tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and basil for a lighter version of the classic Italian dish.
5. Bagel Dogs – Slice some hot dogs lengthwise, then wrap them in a Montreal style bagel before baking in the oven or grilling on the stovetop.

How To Store Montreal Style Bagels?
Montreal-style bagels should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Baked and cooled bagels can also be frozen for up to 4 weeks. If freezing, wrap each bagel individually and store in a freezer-safe bag or container.
To reheat, place the frozen bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush with butter and bake at 400°F for 5 to 7 minutes. And voila – your homemade Montreal-style bagels are ready to enjoy.
Conclusion: Montreal Style Bagels
There you have it, a delicious and easy recipe for Montreal-style bagels. Be sure to try them the next time you’re in town, or make them at home and enjoy the unique flavor and crust. Thanks for reading about Montreal Style Bagels | The Best Bagels in Town.
FAQ: Montreal Style Bagels
Does Montreal style have the best bagels?
There is no definitive answer, but Montreal’s bagels are definitely unique and delicious. If you’re in town, be sure to try one.
What is the difference between Montreal style and New York bagels?
Montreal-style bagels are smaller, sweeter and denser than traditional New York or Philadelphia bagels. They’re boiled in honey water and then baked, which gives them a distinctive flavor and crust. Montreal bagels are often served with cream cheese and lox, or as part of a breakfast sandwich.
Why are Montreal style bagels better?
There is no definitive answer, but many people believe that Montreal’s bagels are better because they are boiled in honey water, which gives them a unique flavor and crust.
What makes Montreal-style bagels different?
ats makes Montreal-style bagels different in that they are boiled in honey water and then baked, giving them a distinctive flavor and crust. Montreal bagels are often served with cream cheese and lox, or as part of a breakfast sandwich.
How many calories are in a Montreal-style bagel?
Whole wheat bagels generally have around 140-150 calories, while plain bagels have about 120 calories. Therefore, Montreal-style bagels would likely be in the range of 140-150 calories. However, this can vary depending on the size and ingredients of the bagel.
What do you put on a Montreal style bagel?
Some of the most popular toppings for Montreal-style bagels include cream cheese, lox, or as part of a breakfast sandwich.
Are Montreal style bagels healthy?
The Montreal bagel is healthier than other versions of a bread product because it only contains 120-220 calories. Some people like to eat just the crust when they have an NYC style baked good, but this unhealthy practice can be prevented by scooping out all sustenance from inside.
Do Montreal-style bagels have gluten?
Yes, Montreal-style bagels contain gluten. If you are looking for a gluten-free option, there are many bakeries that offer gluten-free bagels.
What is the best way to eat a Montreal-style bagel?
Split the bagel in half before adding toppings. Don’t smash the bagel down before eating it. Toppings: cream cheese, lox, or as part of a breakfast sandwich.
Do you toast Montreal style bagels?
ole wheat bagels generally have around 140-150 calories, while plain bagels have about 120 calories. Therefore, Montreal-style bagels would likely be in the range of 140-150 calories. However, this can vary depending on the size and ingredients of the bagel.
What is the difference between a regular bagel and a Montreal style bagel?
The biggest difference between a regular bagel and a Montreal bagel is the way in which they are boiled. Montreal bagels are boiled in honey water before being baked, giving them a distinctive flavor and crust. Montreal bagels are also often served with cream cheese and lox, or as part of a breakfast sandwich.
Are Montreal style bagels hard?
This is a Montreal-style bagel with the perfect chewy texture and sweetness that you can only get from homemade dough. It has a topping of sesame or poppy seeds to give it some crunch, but also contains cream cheese for even more enjoyment.
What is a Montréal style Spice bagel?
A Montréal Spice bagel is a type of bagel that is flavored with Montreal-style spices. These spices include cumin, coriander, and garlic. The bagel is then topped with sesame seeds.
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