Sesame Bread Rings (Print View)

Crispy outside, soft inside golden rings coated in toasted sesame seeds

# What You'll Need:

→ Dough

01 - 4 cups bread flour
02 - 1 packet (0.25 oz) instant dry yeast
03 - 1 ½ teaspoons salt
04 - 2 tablespoons sugar
05 - 1 ¼ cups warm water
06 - ¼ cup olive oil

→ Topping

07 - ½ cup water
08 - 2 tablespoons molasses or honey
09 - 1 cup sesame seeds

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - In a large bowl, combine bread flour, instant yeast, salt, and sugar. Pour in warm water and olive oil. Mix thoroughly until a rough, shaggy dough forms.
02 - Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky. The dough should spring back when pressed.
03 - Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat all sides. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean towel and let rise in a warm, draft-free area for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
04 - Preheat oven to 390°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
05 - Punch down risen dough to release air. Divide into 8 equal portions. Roll each piece into a 16-inch rope, form into a circle, and pinch ends together firmly to seal.
06 - In a shallow bowl, whisk together water and molasses until combined. Spread sesame seeds in a separate shallow bowl.
07 - Dip each dough ring into the molasses mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then press into sesame seeds, turning to coat completely. Transfer to prepared baking sheet.
08 - Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until rings are deeply golden brown, crisp on the outside, and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
09 - Transfer baked rings to a wire rack and let cool completely. Serve at room temperature or lightly warmed.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • That irresistible contrast between a crackly seeded crust and pillowy soft interior makes every bite satisfying
  • The dough comes together with basic pantry staples but tastes like something from a specialty bakery
  • They freeze beautifully so you can always have freshly baked comfort food ready
02 -
  • Molasses can burn quickly, so resist the urge to increase oven temperature even if you want faster results
  • Pinching the seals tightly is crucial because they will pop open during baking if not secured well
03 -
  • Lightly toasting the sesame seeds in a dry pan before coating adds incredible depth of flavor
  • Add crushed garlic or dried herbs to the flour mixture for a savory variation that transforms the whole recipe