If you’re a fan of bagels, you’ve probably heard of Panera Bread’s Asiago Bagel. This savory bagel is a popular choice among breakfast lovers, thanks to its deliciously cheesy flavor and chewy texture. But what makes this bagel so special? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the Panera Asiago Bagel, including its ingredients, nutrition facts, and tips for enjoying it.
Table of Contents
What is a Panera Asiago Bagel?
The Panera Asiago Bagel is a round, chewy bagel that is made with flour, water, yeast, sugar, salt, malt, and a blend of Asiago and parmesan cheeses. The cheese blend gives the bagel a distinctive savory flavor that pairs well with a variety of toppings, from cream cheese to eggs to bacon.
What are the Ingredients in a Panera Asiago Bagel?
The ingredients in a Panera Asiago Bagel include:
- Unbleached enriched wheat flour
- Water
- Asiago cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- Yeast
- Sugar
- Salt
- Malt
- Cornmeal
Unbleached Enriched Wheat Flour
The main ingredient in a Panera Asiago Bagel is unbleached enriched wheat flour. This type of flour is made by milling wheat kernels and removing the bran and germ, leaving only the starchy endosperm. The flour is then enriched with nutrients like iron and B vitamins, which are lost during the milling process.
Asiago Cheese and Parmesan Cheese
The cheese blend in a Panera Asiago Bagel is what gives it its distinctive flavor. Asiago cheese is a hard, Italian cheese that has a slightly nutty and sharp taste. Parmesan cheese, also known as Parmigiano Reggiano, is a hard, dry cheese that has a rich, nutty flavor. The combination of these two cheeses creates a deliciously savory bagel that is perfect for breakfast or any time of day.
Yeast
Yeast is a key ingredient in bread and bagel baking, as it helps the dough rise and gives it its airy texture. The yeast used in a Panera Asiago Bagel is a type of instant yeast, which means it doesn’t need to be proofed in water before use. Instead, it can be added directly to the flour mixture.
What are the Nutrition Facts of a Panera Asiago Bagel?
A Panera Asiago Bagel contains:
- Calories: 330
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 590mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 53g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 14g
How to Enjoy a Panera Asiago Bagel
There are many delicious ways to enjoy a Panera Asiago Bagel. Here are a few ideas:
Spread with Cream Cheese
One of the most popular ways to enjoy a bagel is to spread it with cream cheese. The savory flavor of the Panera Asiago Bagel pairs well with plain or flavored cream cheese, such as chive or vegetable.
Add Eggs and Bacon
For a heartier breakfast option, try slicing a Panera Asiago Bagel in half and toasting it. Top it with scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and a slice of cheddar cheese for a delicious breakfast sandwich.
Make a Breakfast Pizza
If you’re feeling creative, try turning a Panera Asiago Bagel into a mini breakfast pizza. Toast a bagel, then top it with scrambled eggs, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese. Broil in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
What Do People Think About Panera Asiago Bagel?
Panera Asiago Bagel has a loyal following among bagel lovers. Many people rave about its cheesy flavor and chewy texture, and some even say it’s their favorite breakfast option at Panera Bread. However, some people find the bagel to be a bit too salty for their taste.
Question and Answer About Panera Asiago Bagel
Q: Is a Panera Asiago Bagel a Healthy Breakfast Option?
A: While a Panera Asiago Bagel is a delicious breakfast option, it is not the healthiest choice. It contains 330 calories, 7g of fat, and 590mg of sodium, which is a bit high for a single meal. However, if you pair it with a protein-rich topping like eggs or smoked salmon, it can be a more balanced meal.
Nutrition Facts Table
Here’s a breakdown of the nutrition facts in a Panera Asiago Bagel:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 330 |
| Total Fat | 7g |
| Saturated Fat | 3.5g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 20mg |
| Sodium | 590mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 53g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 3g |
| Protein | 14g |
Conclusion
Panera Asiago Bagel is a delicious and savory breakfast option that is perfect for bagel lovers. While it’s not the healthiest choice due to its high sodium and calorie content, it can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced meal. Whether you prefer it with cream cheese, eggs, or bacon, this chewy bagel is sure to satisfy your cravings for something savory and delicious.
