When toasting a bagel in a toaster oven, it's generally recommended to place the bagel cut-side facing up. Here's why:
Even toasting: Placing the bagel cut-side facing up allows the heat from the toaster oven to directly toast the inner side of the bagel, which is usually the softer side. This results in a more even toasting and prevents the outer side from becoming overly toasted or burnt.
Crispy top: By placing the cut-side up, the top of the bagel will get exposed to direct heat, which helps create a crispy and nicely browned surface. This is particularly desirable for bagels, as the contrast between the crispy exterior and the soft interior is one of their defining characteristics.
Avoiding mess: Placing the cut-side up can help prevent any toppings or fillings from dripping onto the toaster oven's heating elements, reducing the risk of smoke or burning smells that might occur if the toaster oven gets messy.
Keep in mind that toaster ovens can vary in their heating performance, so it's essential to keep an eye on the bagel while toasting to ensure it reaches your desired level of crispiness without burning. Toasting times can also vary based on the thickness of the bagel and personal preferences.
If you are toasting a bagel in a traditional pop-up toaster, you can place it cut-side down to achieve similar results, as the heating elements are designed to toast both sides evenly. However, using a toaster oven provides more control and flexibility, especially if you want to add toppings like cheese or melted butter, as you can easily monitor the bagel's progress.