My 5 Cents on Pumpernickel Bagels (2024)

Jenny Marks, Staff Writer/Bagel Extraordinaire|December 15, 2021

My 5 Cents on Pumpernickel Bagels (2)

Wikipedia defines a pumpernickel bagel as “a typically heavy, slightly sweet rye bread traditionally made with sourdough starter and coarsely ground rye [that’s] sometimes made with a combination of flour made from rye as well as whole rye grains.” I define it as pure bliss.

Bagels are an important part of my life. They are a terrific after-practice snack and they comfort me during the dark times of my life. However, sometimes I am stopped in my path towards reaching true happiness.

The culprits? My friends. I am beaten down for my taste in bagels. The words of “weird” and “that’s gross” haunt me every time I walk to the counter of Lox Stock and Bagels.

But yet, I persevere. The knowledge that the pumpernickel bagel is listed as the 20th bagel on the online Lox Stock and Bagels’ menu reminds me that I am not the only one who relishes in the circle of doughy, rye bread. It may be 20th on the website, but it will always be No. 1 in my heart.

Some people may say, “But Jenny, just because the bagel is available at one shop doesn’t mean it’s good.”

To that I say, do your research. Pumpernickel is a popular bagel flavor in New York, it’s a common part of Dutch people’s diets, and it’s a staple in Denmark. And you can’t argue with the Danes.

Pumpernickel bagels are also a great way to spice up your life. If you walk up to the counter and ask for an everything bagel, you’re boring. Bland. Basic. Yeah, it might have “everything” on it, but is it made with dense rye bread? No.

If you want to make your mark on the world, start by ordering a pumpernickel bagel. No Lox Stock and Bagel employee will ever forget the person who came into their store and asked for a pumpernickel bagel with cream cheese. You could be the ray of light in their once gloomy day.

This cross country season, my coach got us bagels for a Saturday morning practice. She called each of our names and asked for our preferred bagel flavor. When it got to me, I hesitated. I wanted my chewy, coarse, pumpernickel bagel. But I knew I would get made of fun instantly when I voiced my choice. So instead, I went with an everything bagel. I have never forgiven myself for that cowardly decision.

To cope with this, I have made myself read this important ode ever since that fateful day: “Pumpernickel” by Stephen Bates Baltes made its debut on a Barney episode called “Any Way You Slice It.”

Its lyrics have changed my life.

“Yum, yum, pumpernickel!

Pumpernickel bread! Hey!

Barney has a bread and it’s called pumpernickel!

Yum, yum, pumpernickel!

Pumpernickel bread! Hey!”

These lyrics have never rung so true. It’s no wonder why Barney is aimed towards growing children. Learning about the deliciousness pumpernickel bread offers, and thus pumpernickel bagels, is important knowledge that young kids must know.

Change can begin anytime and anywhere. Why not start now? A simple change in your meal choice is a great start! The next time someone asks what kind of bagel you’d like, simply puff up your chest and proudly ask for one pumpernickel bagel.

From that moment on, your new life begins. An endless source of happiness awaits you. All you have to do is make the switch to pumpernickel bagels.

My 5 Cents on Pumpernickel Bagels (2024)

FAQs

Is a pumpernickel bagel healthier than a regular bagel? ›

Pumpernickel has no crust, and is dense and hearty. It's a healthy choice, too—rye flour packs less carbs than wheat, and supplies a good amount of fiber, vitamins, and minerals as well. It goes well with ingredients that benefit from an extra element of nuttiness.

Is pumpernickel bread healthy? ›

Hence, the dark crust of pumpernickel bread is a rich source of a variety of vitamins and antioxidant. In general, Pumpernickel bread is an enriched source of nutrients while having a coarse texture and slighter sweet taste profile making it a highly recommended addition to your diet.

What is the difference between rye bread and pumpernickel? ›

Pumpernickel bread is a type of rye bread.

The critical difference between pumpernickel and rye bread is that rye bread is a catch-all term to describe any bread made with rye flour, whereas European pumpernickel bread is a specific type of dark rye bread made with rye meal, usually without any wheat.

What is the healthiest bagel to eat? ›

The healthiest bagel is one made with whole grains. For a healthy bagel option, look for whole wheat or rye bagels. Sourdough bagels are also a healthy option, since sourdough bread varieties are more nutritious than white bread options.

Is it okay to eat a bagel every day? ›

"The portion size of most packaged bagels is equal to just over three slices of bread. Enjoying a bagel every morning is fine if you watch your portion size. Consider eating half a bagel one day and the other half the next day," says Laura M. Ali, M.S., RDN, a culinary nutritionist in Pittsburgh.

Are pumpernickel bagels ok for diabetics? ›

Consider low-carbohydrate tortillas or pumpernickel, which can help reduce glycemic response. Pair bread or low-carbohydrate tortillas with protein to reduce postprandial (after-meal) blood sugars and make you feel more full. Try nut butter, chopped egg, or sliced chicken with vegetables.

Does pumpernickel bread have a lot of sugar? ›

For example, according to USDA data, one regular slice of white bread provides about 75 calories and 1.6 grams of sugar but less than one gram of fiber (0.76g). 9 On the other hand, pumpernickel provides 80 calories but over 2 grams of fiber and only 0.2 grams of sugar.

Is pumpernickel bread hard to digest? ›

This name stemmed from the difficult-to-digest nature of pumpernickel, likely related to its dense texture. But don't worry, the digestibility of pumpernickel has likely increased since that time due to the strides made in bread fermentation.

What to eat with pumpernickel bread? ›

What do you eat with pumpernickel bread? Pumpernickel makes for fantastic toast and sandwiches of all kinds, and it's especially wonderful paired with hearty soups and strong-flavored accompaniments such as sauerkraut, mustard, and sharp cheeses.

What kind of bread is served at the Cheesecake Factory? ›

Loved around the world, our brown bread baguette is a Cheesecake Factory signature taste – now available to enjoy at home in Mini Baguettes, Dinner Rolls and Sandwich Bread.

Is pumpernickel bagel healthy? ›

Pumpernickel contains B-Complex vitamins that are needed to produce energy in the body and that are important for the nervous and digestive system health. Pumpernickel also contains minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and iron.

What cream cheese goes with pumpernickel bagel? ›

The two specific spreads are Cream Cheese & Chives and Pumpkin Cream Cheese. The pumpkin spread I always make for my pumpkin bagels and the cream cheese & chives, I always use with my pumpernickel bagels.

What cheese goes well with pumpernickel bread? ›

Grilled Gouda Cheese Sandwiches With Smoked Ham and Pumpernickel.

How many calories are in one Pumpernickel Bagel? ›

Bagel, pumpernickel, plain or seasoned (1 medium - 3 1/2" - 4" diameter) contains 66.8g total carbs, 58.4g net carbs, 1.2g fat, 10.2g protein, and 313 calories.

Is Pumpernickel Bagel good for diabetics? ›

Pumpernickel Bread

It is one of the healthier bread made from sourdough starters and coarsely ground rye. In addition, the fermented rye and lower GI value make pumpernickel bread ideal for diabetes. A study also notes that pumpernickel bread can be a valuable part of the diet for reducing postprandial glycemia.

What is the healthiest topping for a bagel? ›

Peanut butter is a healthy option, especially low sugar, natural varieties. It offers flavor and protein without weighing you down, and it tastes great on bagels. Try it with a sliced banana! If actual cream cheese isn't your favorite, tofu cream cheese is a delicious alternative.

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