Sesame Bread Rings (Printable)

Golden bread rings with crisp exterior and soft interior, generously coated in toasted sesame seeds for a satisfying Mediterranean snack.

# What You'll Need:

→ Dough

01 - 3 ½ cups bread flour
02 - 2 ¼ tsp instant dry yeast
03 - 1 ½ tsp salt
04 - 2 tbsp sugar
05 - 1 ¼ cups warm water
06 - ¼ cup olive oil

→ Topping

07 - ⅓ cup water
08 - 2 tbsp molasses (or honey as a substitute)
09 - 1 cup sesame seeds

# How To Make:

01 - Combine bread flour, yeast, salt, and sugar in a large mixing bowl. Pour in warm water and olive oil. Mix thoroughly until a rough, shaggy dough forms.
02 - Turn the dough onto a lightly floured work surface. Knead vigorously for 8 to 10 minutes, stretching and folding until the dough becomes smooth, elastic, and springs back when pressed.
03 - Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl, turning once to coat all surfaces. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or a damp towel. Let rise in a warm, draft-free area for 1 hour or until doubled in bulk.
04 - Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
05 - Punch down the risen dough to release air. Divide into 8 equal portions. Roll each piece between your palms and the work surface to form a 16-inch rope. Bring the ends together and press firmly to seal, creating a ring shape.
06 - Fill a shallow bowl with water and molasses, whisking until combined. Place sesame seeds in a separate shallow bowl.
07 - Dip each dough ring into the molasses mixture, turning to coat completely. Immediately press into the sesame seeds, ensuring thorough coverage on all sides. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
08 - Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, rotating the baking sheet halfway through, until rings are deep golden brown with a crisp exterior.
09 - Transfer to a wire cooling rack and let cool for at least 15 minutes before serving.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The contrast between the crunchy sesame exterior and tender interior is honestly addictive
  • They come together faster than you would think, and your kitchen will smell incredible
02 -
  • I learned the hard way that sealing the rings tightly is non-negotiable or they will pop open while baking
  • Toasting your sesame seeds for 5 minutes before coating adds a depth of flavor that is absolutely worth the extra step
03 -
  • Weighing your flour instead of using cups will give you the most consistent results
  • If the dough feels too sticky while kneading, add flour just one tablespoon at a time