How A Bagel Is Made

• A bagel begins as very stiff dough made from bread flour or high-gluten flour shaped into its holey form. Bagels are boiled for one or two minutes to gelatinize the starch, which gives them the chewy texture that sets them apart from donuts. They then go into the oven for 10 to 15 minutes at 500 degrees Fahrenheit to crisp the outside and give them a crunch.
  
  

Bagel Toppings

• Bagels come in many flavors like cheddar cheese, cinnamon raisin, blueberry, onion and more. They're often coated with sesame seeds, poppy seeds and garlic, then loaded with soft cream cheese -- which also comes in many flavors, like sun-dried tomato and basil, spinach and artichoke and blueberry. If you want to enjoy your bagel a little differently, top it with smoked salmon or smash an egg and cheese between two to create a breakfast sandwich.
  
  

How A Donut Is Made

• Donuts are made from a lighter dough leavened with yeast or chemicals. The mixture is shaped into a ring, then dropped into hot oil for about 45 seconds. Frying allows the outside to crisp and the inside to stay soft and fluffy. Donuts made with baking powder have a heavier, cake-like texture.
  
  

Donut Toppings

• Donuts are often glazed or filled with different types of jelly or creme and come in flavors like chocolate, blueberry, lemon and maple. They're often slathered in frosting of many varieties and topped with an array of colorful sprinkles. The result is a picturesque, mouthwatering treat.