Whether you enjoy bagels daily or only once in a while, spoil yourself with this treat during National Bagel Day on Feb. 9. Bagels have evolved over the centuries, and every culture has their version of this bread. To better appreciate this treat when celebrating this holiday, learn more about its rich history and the popular varieties you can snack on.

The History of the Bagel

While popular legend claims it was invented in 1693 as a tribute to the Polish king, Jan Sobieski, numerous cultures have recorded this ring-shaped bread as far back as 1394. Each culture has a different name for this treat – China has girde, and Italy has taralli – but the appearance is the same.

The snack appeared in America in the late nineteenth century but didn’t become trendy until the 1970s. Lenders® was one of the first companies to market frozen bagels, and touted them as the “Jewish English Muffin.” As it gained popularity, Kraft Foods® finally purchased the Lenders®’ business for mass production. Today, they’ve become a favorite at coffee houses and breakfast shops, and are offered plain, toasted, with cream cheese, or even as a sandwich.

Popular Varieties

While bagels aren’t available in different shapes and sizes, they’re offered in several delicious flavors. When they first emerged, the bread was typically sold in a few varieties, including plain, whole wheat, and blueberry, but as they evolved, newer, unique flavors became available, like chocolate chip, asiago cheese, cinnamon apple, poppy seed, and everything bagels. Whether you’re satiating a sweet tooth or craving something savory, you can pick your favorite flavor and select a topping like peanut butter or strawberry cream cheese to dress it up.

If you’re looking to celebrate National Bagel Day with your favorite cup of coffee, visit Maleko Coffee and Pastries in Honolulu, HI, for this tasty treat. Established in 2017, the locally owned and operated, premier coffee shop offers a variety of breakfast options, including fresh-baked muffins, malasadas, strudels, and scones. View their menu online or call (808) 561-2846 to ask about their rotating selection of pastries.