Why Are My Bagels Dull? The Shine-Boosting Secrets from Abel’s Bagels. Ever wonder why your homemade or bakery bagels turn out pale or flat instead of glossy and golden? At Abel’s Bagels in Las Vegas, we’ve mastered the shine with traditional New York methods, long fermentation, and just the right boil. Discover the top reasons your bagels might be missing their glow — and how to fix them like a pro.