Prepare to elevate your bagel-slicing game with America’s Test Kitchen’s meticulously curated list of the finest bagel slicers available in the market. Our experts have conducted rigorous testing, slicing through countless bagels to determine the best tool that will effortlessly produce clean, even slices every time. Whether you prefer the classic guillotine-style or the innovative ring-style, our comprehensive guide will empower you to make an informed decision. Discover the slicer that will transform your bagel-eating experience, making every slice a moment of pure culinary delight.
Transitioning to the body of the article, we will delve into the intricate details of each top-rated bagel slicer, highlighting their unique features and capabilities. We will explore the ease of use, slicing precision, durability, and overall user experience. Our team of culinary enthusiasts has meticulously evaluated every aspect to provide you with an in-depth understanding of the strengths and limitations of each model. Whether you are a seasoned bagel aficionado or simply seeking a reliable slicer for your occasional bagel indulgence, this guide will navigate you through the world of bagel slicers, ensuring you make the perfect choice for your kitchen.
As we conclude our exploration of the best bagel slicers, we will provide valuable tips and insights to help you get the most out of your chosen slicer. From proper slicing techniques to maintenance and storage recommendations, we will empower you with the knowledge to keep your bagel slicer performing at its peak. Additionally, we will discuss the versatility of these slicers beyond bagel slicing, exploring their potential to enhance your culinary adventures. Whether it’s slicing bread, rolls, or even tomatoes, our guide will unlock the hidden capabilities of your bagel slicer, making it an indispensable tool in your kitchen.
The Ultimate Guide to Bagel Slicing
1. A Cut Above: Selecting the Perfect Slicer
The key to achieving the perfect bagel slice lies in choosing the right slicer. Explore the diverse options available and determine the one best suited for your needs:
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Bread Knife: A classic choice for slicing bagels, a bread knife features a long, serrated blade that can easily penetrate the tough crust while minimizing tearing. However, achieving even slices can be challenging.
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Bagel Guillotine: Designed specifically for bagels, a bagel guillotine boasts a sharp, angled blade that ensures precise slicing. Its ergonomic handle and sturdy base provide stability and control for effortless slicing.
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Bagel Cutter: Resembling a large pair of pliers, a bagel cutter uses two curved blades to cut bagels horizontally. Its compact size and ease of use make it a popular choice for home kitchens.
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Electric Bagel Slicer: For those seeking convenience and efficiency, an electric bagel slicer offers automated slicing. Its rotating blade slices bagels evenly and quickly, saving time and effort.
| Slicer Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Bread Knife | Versatile and affordable | Requires skill to achieve even slices |
| Bagel Guillotine | Precise and easy to use | Larger and more expensive than other options |
| Bagel Cutter | Compact and affordable | Horizontal slicing only |
| Electric Bagel Slicer | Convenient and time-saving | Expensive and requires an electrical outlet |
2. Slice with Precision: Techniques and Tips
3. Bagel Bites: Creative Slicing Ideas
How to Choose the Perfect Bagel Slicer for Your Needs
The Perfect Bagel Slice
There are other bagel slicers on the market, but the three best options are the following: The first option is the New York Slicer Bagel Guillotine, the second option is the Waring Commercial Electric Bagel Slicer, the third option is the Cuisinart Bagel Slicer.
New York Slicer Bagel Guillotine
The New York Slicer Bagel Guillotine is a heavy-duty bagel slicer made of cast aluminum. It has a large capacity and can slice bagels of all sizes. The guillotine blade is made of high-carbon stainless steel and is very sharp. The slicer also has a built-in crumb tray to catch any crumbs that fall off the bagel while slicing.
Pros:
- Heavy-duty construction
- Large capacity
- Sharp guillotine blade
- Built-in crumb tray
Cons:
- Expensive
- Can be difficult to clean
Waring Commercial Electric Bagel Slicer
The Waring Commercial Electric Bagel Slicer is a high-powered electric bagel slicer that can slice bagels quickly and easily. It has a stainless steel blade and a built-in motor that powers the blade. The slicer also has a safety guard to prevent your hands from coming into contact with the blade.
Pros:
- Electric motor for fast slicing
- Stainless steel blade
- Safety guard
- Compact size
Cons:
- Expensive
- Can be noisy
Cuisinart Bagel Slicer
The Cuisinart Bagel Slicer is a simple and affordable bagel slicer that is perfect for home use. It has a plastic base and a stainless steel blade. The slicer is also dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Compact size
- Dishwasher safe
Cons:
- Not as durable as some other slicers
- Can be difficult to slice large bagels
| New York Slicer Bagel Guillotine | Waring Commercial Electric Bagel Slicer | Cuisinart Bagel Slicer | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $$$ | $$$ | $ |
| Size | Large | Compact | Compact |
| Material | Cast aluminum | Stainless steel | Plastic |
| Blade | High-carbon stainless steel | Stainless steel | Stainless steel |
| Motor | Manual | Electric | Manual |
| Safety features | Built-in crumb tray | Safety guard | None |
| Dishwasher safe | No | No | Yes |
The Anatomy of a Bagel Slicer
1. The Handle
The handle is the part of the bagel slicer that you hold onto when using it. It is usually made of plastic or wood and is ergonomically designed to fit comfortably in your hand.
2. The Blade
The blade is the part of the bagel slicer that cuts the bagel. It is usually made of stainless steel and is sharp enough to cut through the bagel without crushing it.
3. The Base
The base is the part of the bagel slicer that holds the bagel in place while it is being cut. It is usually made of plastic or wood and has a non-slip surface to prevent the bagel from moving.
4. The Crumb Tray
The crumb tray is a part of the bagel slicer that catches the crumbs that are created when the bagel is cut. It is usually made of plastic or metal and is removable for easy cleaning.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Handle | Ergonomically designed for a comfortable grip |
| Blade | Sharp stainless steel blade for clean cuts |
| Base | Non-slip surface for stability |
| Crumb Tray | Removable for easy cleaning |
How to Use a Bagel Slicer Safely and Effectively
1. Choose the Right Slicer
Select a bagel slicer with a sturdy base and sharp, serrated blades. The slicer should be wide enough to accommodate large bagels.
2. Position the Bagel
Place the bagel in the center of the slicer. Make sure it is positioned evenly and that the top of the bagel is facing up.
3. Secure the Bagel
Use the lever or handle to secure the bagel in place. The bagel should be held firmly without slipping or moving.
4. Slice the Bagel
Apply downward pressure on the lever or handle to slice through the bagel. Hold the bagel steady until the blade passes completely through.
5. Thickness Adjustments
Most bagel slicers have adjustable settings to determine the desired bagel thickness. To adjust the thickness:
| Slicer Type | Adjustment Method |
|---|---|
| Lever-operated | Turn the knob or adjust the lever to set the blade height. |
| Handle-operated | Slide the blade up or down the guide rails to adjust the thickness. |
| Electric | Use the control panel buttons or dial to select the desired thickness setting. |
Adjust the thickness according to your preference, from thin slices for sandwiches to thicker slices for toast or bagels with toppings.
Troubleshooting Common Bagel Slicing Problems
Problem: The bagel is tearing or breaking apart.
Possible causes:
- The bagel is not fully defrosted.
- The bread is too fresh.
- The knife is not sharp enough.
Problem: The slices are not the same thickness.
Possible causes:
- The bagel is not level.
- The knife is not held parallel to the cutting board.
- The slicing guide is not properly adjusted.
Problem: The bagels are too soft or too hard to slice.
Possible causes:
- The bagels are not fresh enough.
- The bagels are too fresh.
- The slicing guide is not properly adjusted.
Problem: The bagels are sticking to the knife.
Possible causes:
- The knife is not sharp enough.
- The knife is not coated with a non-stick spray.
- The knife is not held at the correct angle.
Problem: The bagels are not slicing all the way through.
Possible causes:
- The knife is not sharp enough.
- The knife is not held at the correct angle.
- The bagels are not fully defrosted.
Problem: The bagel is too big for the slicer.
Possible solutions:
- Use a larger bagel slicer.
- Cut the bagel in half before slicing.
- Slice the bagel by hand.
| Problem | Cause | Solution | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The bagel is tearing or breaking apart. |
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| The slices are not the same thickness. |
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| The bagels are too soft or too hard to slice. |
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| The bagels are sticking to the knife. |
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| The bagels are not slicing all the way through. |
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| The bagel is too big for the slicer. |
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| Feature | Bagel Guillotine | OXO Good Grips Bagel Slicer | Cuisinart CEK-41 Electric Bagel Slicer | Buddeez Bagel Slicer |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $24.99 | $14.99 | $49.99 | $29.99 |
| Material | Stainless steel | Plastic | Stainless steel | Cast iron |
| Blade | Serrated | Serrated | Serrated | Serrated |
| Slice thickness | Adjustable | Fixed | Adjustable | Fixed |
| Dishwasher safe | No | Yes | No | No |
The Art of the Perfect Bagel Slice
1. Choose the Right Knife
A serrated knife with a long, sharp blade is ideal for slicing bagels. It will create clean, even slices without tearing the bread.
2. Warm the Bagel
Place the bagel in the toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds to soften it. This will make it easier to slice.
3. Hold the Bagel Correctly
Hold the bagel with your dominant hand and place your non-dominant hand on top of it to stabilize it.
4. Find the Center
Use your knife to find the center of the bagel. This is where you will start slicing.
5. Cut Evenly
Start slicing the bagel from the center outwards, using gentle, even pressure. Keep the knife straight and parallel to the cutting board.
6. Don’t Over Slice
Slice the bagel just enough to cut through it completely. Avoid slicing too deeply into the bagel.
7. Remove the Slices
Once the bagel is sliced, gently remove the slices from the cutting board.
8. Serve Immediately
Bagels are best served fresh and warm. Spread with your favorite toppings and enjoy!
9. Slicing Thick or Thin Bagels
Bagels can be sliced to different thicknesses depending on your preference. For thicker slices, cut perpendicular to the bagel’s surface. For thinner slices, cut at a slight angle.
| Slice Thickness | Description |
|---|---|
| 1/2 inch | Thick slices, perfect for sandwiches and toasting |
| 1/4 inch | Medium slices, ideal for bagels with toppings |
| 1/8 inch | Thin slices, great for bagel chips and croutons |
Bagel Slicing Tips from the Pros
1. Use a Serrated Knife
A serrated knife will help you slice through the tough exterior of a bagel without tearing or crushing it.
2. Hold the Knife at a Slight Angle
Hold the knife at a slight angle to the bagel so that you cut through the top and bottom crusts at the same time.
3. Cut in a Smooth, Even Motion
Don’t saw back and forth. Instead, cut in a smooth, even motion.
4. Apply Even Pressure
Apply even pressure to the knife as you cut. Don’t push too hard, or you will crush the bagel.
5. Cut Thin Slices
Thin slices are easier to eat and will toast more evenly.
6. Toast the Bagel Before Cutting
Toasting the bagel before cutting will help to prevent it from crumbling.
7. Use a Bagel Guillotine
A bagel guillotine is a specialized tool that can quickly and easily slice bagels.
8. Use a Bread Knife
A bread knife can also be used to slice bagels, but it may not be as effective as a serrated knife.
9. Use a Sharp Knife
A sharp knife is essential for slicing bagels. A dull knife will tear and crush the bagel.
10. Practice Makes Perfect
The best way to become a pro at slicing bagels is to practice. Don’t be discouraged if your first few attempts don’t turn out perfect. Just keep trying, and you’ll eventually get the hang of it.
Here are some additional tips for slicing bagels like a pro:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use a slicing guide | A slicing guide can help you cut even slices of bagels. |
| Score the bagel before slicing | Scoring the bagel before slicing will help to prevent it from tearing. |
| Freeze the bagel before slicing | Freezing the bagel before slicing will make it easier to cut. |
The Best Bagel Slicer from America’s Test Kitchen
After testing several dozen bagel slicers, America’s Test Kitchen recommends the OXO Good Grips Bagel Slicer as the best overall model. This slicer is easy to use, produces even slices, and is dishwasher safe. It is also made from sturdy materials that will last for years.
The OXO Bagel Slicer has a wide, non-slip base that keeps it stable on the counter. The slicing blade is made from durable stainless steel and is adjustable to accommodate different bagel sizes. The slicer also has a built-in crumb tray that catches any stray bagel crumbs.
In their tests, America’s Test Kitchen found that the OXO Bagel Slicer produced the most consistent slices of all the models they tested. The slices were even in thickness and did not tear or crumble. The slicer was also easy to clean, with all of the parts being dishwasher safe.
People Also Ask
What is the best way to slice a bagel?
The best way to slice a bagel is to use a sharp bagel slicer. This will help to prevent the bagel from tearing or crumbling.
What are the different types of bagel slicers?
There are three main types of bagel slicers: manual, electric, and cordless. Manual slicers are the most affordable and easiest to use, but they require some effort to slice a bagel. Electric slicers are more expensive, but they can slice bagels quickly and easily. Cordless slicers are the most portable, but they may not be as powerful as electric slicers.
What should I look for when buying a bagel slicer?
When buying a bagel slicer, you should consider the following factors:
- Ease of use
- Slice thickness
- Durability
- Price
