What To Do With Stale Bagels

There are plenty of delicious and creative things to do with stale bagels.

It’s a common kitchen dilemma, but a stale bagel is definitely not a lost cause.

Instead of tossing them out, you can transform those chewy, day-old rounds into amazing new meals and snacks.

In this post, we’ll explore the best things to do with stale bagels, from crunchy croutons to sweet bread puddings.

Let’s rescue those bagels and turn them into something spectacular.

Why You Shouldn’t Throw Away Stale Bagels

Before we get into the specifics of what to do with stale bagels, let’s chat about why they’re actually a gift in disguise.

Stale bagels are the perfect base for a ton of recipes because their dense texture holds up beautifully.

Unlike fresh, soft bread that can turn to mush, stale bagels have a sturdy structure that absorbs flavors without falling apart.

This makes them ideal for cooking and baking projects where you need a little more substance.

So, the next time you’re wondering what to do with stale bagels, remember you’ve got a versatile ingredient on your hands.

Let’s look at the best ways to give them a second life.

The Best Ways To Use Stale Bagels

There are so many options when it comes to what to do with stale bagels.

It really just depends on what kind of craving you’re trying to satisfy.

Here are some of my favorite methods for turning that rock-hard breakfast into a tasty treat.

1. Make Bagel Croutons for Salads and Soups

This is one of the easiest and most rewarding things to do with stale bagels.

Cut your stale bagels into small, bite-sized cubes.

Toss them with a little olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs like garlic powder or rosemary.

Spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crunchy.

These bagel croutons are amazing on top of a Caesar salad or floating in a bowl of creamy tomato soup.

They add a fantastic, chewy-crisp texture that regular bread croutons just can’t match.

2. Whip Up Savory Bagel Bread Pudding

If you are looking for a hearty dinner, then making a savory bread pudding is a fantastic answer to what to do with stale bagels.

Tear the stale bagels into chunks and place them in a greased baking dish.

In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, shredded cheddar cheese, cooked bacon or sausage, and some chopped scallions.

Pour this mixture over the bagel chunks, making sure they are all soaked.

Let it sit for about 15 minutes so the bagels can absorb the custard.

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes until it’s puffed up and golden.

It’s a comforting, filling meal that’s perfect for brunch or a cozy weeknight dinner.

3. Blend Them Into Bagel Breadcrumbs

Turning stale bagels into breadcrumbs is a smart and practical way to use them up.

Simply place the stale bagels in a food processor and pulse until you get a fine crumb.

You can use them right away, or you can toast them in a dry skillet to make them extra crispy.

These bagel breadcrumbs are perfect for topping mac and cheese, coating chicken cutlets, or adding a crunchy crust to baked fish.

The subtle flavor of the bagel, whether it’s everything or plain, adds a nice depth to your dishes.

This is definitely one of the most useful things to do with stale bagels.

4. Create Crispy Bagel Chips for Snacking

For a simple and addictive snack, bagel chips are the way to go when considering what to do with stale bagels.

Use a sharp knife to slice the stale bagels as thinly as you possibly can.

Brush each slice with olive oil or melted butter.

For an everything bagel, you might not need extra seasoning, but for a plain one, sprinkle with sea salt and cracked black pepper.

Arrange them on a baking sheet and bake at 325°F (160°C) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping once halfway through.

Keep an eye on them because they can burn quickly.

These bagel chips are fantastic with hummus, guacamole, or your favorite dip.

Sweet and Decadent Stale Bagel Recipes

It’s not all about savory dishes.

There are also some incredible sweet treats you can make, so you don’t have to limit what to do with stale bagels.

1. Bagel French Toast Casserole

Day-old bakery bagels are the secret to the best French toast casserole.

Cube your stale bagels and place them in a baking dish.

Mix together eggs, milk, heavy cream, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a touch of maple syrup.

Pour the custard over the bagel cubes and let them soak overnight in the fridge.

In the morning, bake it at 350°F (175°C) for about 35-40 minutes.

The result is a custardy, delicious breakfast that’s perfect for feeding a crowd.

The stale bagels absorb the custard perfectly, creating a soft, tender center with slightly crispy edges.

2. Classic Bagel Chips With Cinnamon Sugar

If you loved the savory bagel chips, you’ll love this sweet variation.

After slicing your stale bagels thinly, brush them with melted butter.

Then, generously sprinkle them with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar.

Bake them at 300°F (150°C) for 15-20 minutes until they are crisp and golden.

These sweet bagel chips are wonderful on their own as a snack.

You can also use them as a topping for ice cream or yogurt.

It’s a simple treat that answers the question of what to do with stale bagels in a very delicious way.

So, What To Do With Stale Bagels?

There are many delicious and creative things to do with stale bagels.

From making soup-topping croutons to whipping up a decadent breakfast casserole, your stale bagels are far from useless.

You can easily revive them into a brand-new meal with just a few simple ingredients.

So, don’t toss them in the trash.

Instead, put your stale bagels to good use with one of these fantastic recipes.

Whether you’re in the mood for something savory or sweet, there’s a perfect solution for you.