The bagel wars have a new front, and it’s not about toppings like cream cheese or eggs. Instead, the debate now revolves around an unconventional preparation method: scooping out the inside. While some consider it a practical way to enjoy a bagel with fewer carbs and more crunch, others see it as nothing short of sacrilege.
This long-standing discussion gained fresh attention last year when a Los Angeles-based TikToker shared his experience of ordering a scooped bagel at a New York deli. His request was met with an expletive-laden refusal, sparking a renewed divide between bagel lovers on both coasts.
What Is a Scooped Bagel?
A scooped bagel is simply a bagel with its soft interior removed, leaving behind mostly the crunchy outer shell. While some argue that the fluffy dough inside is the best part of a bagel, others prefer the scooped version for a better texture-to-topping ratio or to cut down on calories.
The controversy surrounding this modification is strong. Critics liken it to eating only the wrapper of a muffin or stripping a bagel of its essence. In a 2023 NJ.com article, food writer Jeremy Schneider wrote: “Without its majestic fluffy core, a bagel isn’t even a bagel anymore; might as well eat a salted flatbread and punch yourself in the face.”
However, supporters of the scooped bagel argue that the method enhances the eating experience. Bon Appétit writer Sam Stone claims that removing some of the interior improves the dough-to-crust ratio, allowing for a crispier bite without the overwhelming gumminess of too much bread.
Even celebrities have weighed in on the debate. In a behind-the-scenes clip from the 90s sitcom Friends, Jennifer Aniston revealed her preference for scooping out bagels, defending the habit against her co-stars’ teasing. “I don’t like chewy, I like crunchy. Try it,” she said.
The History of Scooped Bagels
The origins of the scooped bagel remain unclear. Some longtime New Yorkers recall seeing the trend emerge in the early 2000s, while others believe it dates back to the late 1990s during the height of low-carb diet trends. Bon Appétit speculates that the rise of diet-conscious eating played a role in popularizing the practice.
Though it may be more common in places like Los Angeles, where wellness trends often drive food choices, New Yorkers tend to be more resistant to altering their bagels in such a drastic way. Many traditional bagel shops in the city refuse to accommodate scooping requests, seeing it as an insult to a culinary staple.
Are Scooped Bagels Healthier?
One of the biggest arguments in favor of scooped bagels is their potential health benefits. Since a significant portion of the dough is removed, the bagel contains fewer calories and carbohydrates than its whole counterpart. However, nutrition experts caution that eliminating part of the bagel does not automatically make it a healthier choice.
“It comes down to just looking at how it fits into what you’re eating on a regular basis,” registered dietitian Jill Weisenberger previously explained. She emphasized that bread, including bagels, can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.
For those looking for healthier bread options, the choice should depend on individual dietary needs rather than whether the bagel is scooped or not.
The Final Verdict
While the scooped bagel debate is unlikely to be settled anytime soon, it continues to spark discussion among bagel lovers. Whether it’s a creative way to enjoy a classic or an unnecessary destruction of a beloved food, one thing is certain—people are passionate about their bagels.
For now, the decision to scoop or not to scoop remains a personal preference, but if you’re ordering in New York, be prepared for a strong reaction.
