Montreal vs New York Style Bagels: What’s the Difference?

The battle of Montreal vs New York style bagels is hotly contested. New Yorkers will die on the hill that their big, chewy circles of goodness are the only answer when it comes to bagels. But there’s a whole other camp of foodies who argue that Montreal bagels are far superior in both taste and texture.

If you’re thinking, “Katie, they’re just bagels… how different can they be?!” Think again! And I’m here to tell you why…

Let’s dive into the key differences between Montreal vs New York style bagels!

The Dough

Both Montreal and New York bagels are made with the same basics: yeast, flour, water, and sugar. But there are a few key differences from there. New York bagels usually include some salt while Montreal bagels do not. And Montreal bagel recipes will often include egg yolk and oil, while New York bagels do not. This is a biggy. Egg and oil makes bagels (or any type of bread made with yeast) more tender, which is why Montreal bagels are often softer than New York bagels.

(Want to learn more about New York bagels? Get the history HERE!)

The Proofing Time

Montreal bagels (left photo) have a shorter proofing time, which gives them a denser crumb. New York bagels (right photo), on the other hand, are left to proof in a refrigerator overnight. This slows down the fermentation process, which leads to more developed flavors and a lighter texture.

Cooking Methods

When comparing Montreal vs New York style bagels, the cooking method plays a key role in the final flavor. Both are boiled, but Montreal style bagels are boiled in honey-sweetened water while New York bagels are boiled in salted water with a splash of malt syrup. This gives Montreal bagels a much sweeter taste and New York bagels a harder, caramelized crust.

After the boil, Montreal bagels are baked in a wood fired oven which gives them a crispier crust and smoky flavor. New York bagels, on the other hand, and baked in a conventional oven

We got a behind the scenes look at how New York bagels are made. Check out the video below!

Montreal vs New York Style Bagels: Size, Texture, and Flavor Rapid Fire Rundown

Size: New York bagels are larger and have a smaller hole.

Texture: Montreal bagels are denser with a crispy crust while New York bagels have more chew.

Flavor: Montreal bagels are sweeter with a slightly smoky while New York bagels are saltier.

Which leads us to the big question…. which is better?!

I’ve had dozens, maybe even hundreds, of New York bagels in my life, but only a hand full of Montreal bagels. So my answer is that I simply don’t have enough data to give a conclusive answer.

That answer also just so happens to keep me out of the crosshair of one of biggest foodie debates out there….

Have an opinion? Leave it in the comments! I want to know!