[Eccl 10:2]

I’m just asking, and I’m from NY.

Why do they have a hole in the middle? What value does the hole bring?

Because the hole makes spreading anything on it a pain in the tucchus?

And without the hole , it would make a much better hamburger or barbecue bun.

[Dr. Sivana]

Why do they have a hole in the middle? What value does the hole bring?

I know the answer for donuts, and it may apply to bagels, too. Without the hole, the middle of the bagel would be undercooked. Plain donuts have holes. Donuts with filling (e.g. jelly) don't need holes because the center doesn't have to be cooked.