Save These Mediterranean-style bread rings feature a perfectly balanced texture—crisp and golden on the outside with a soft, airy interior. The dough is enriched with olive oil for tenderness, then dipped in a molasses wash and coated generously with toasted sesame seeds before baking to achieve that signature crunch.
The process requires about 20 minutes of active preparation, followed by a one-hour rise and 20 minutes in the oven. The molasses dip helps the sesame seeds adhere while adding subtle depth, creating that beautiful golden-brown finish. Each batch yields eight rings that are ideal for pairing with cheese, olives, or your favorite spreads.
For best results, consider lightly toasting the sesame seeds before coating for enhanced nuttiness. The rings freeze beautifully and can be refreshed in a warm oven whenever you need a quick, satisfying snack or breakfast addition.
The aroma of sesame seeds toasting in a hot oven instantly transports me to a tiny bakery in Athens where I watched an elderly baker effortlessly twist ropes of dough into perfect rings. He moved with such practiced grace, never measuring, just knowing by touch when the dough was ready. I stood there for over an hour, completely mesmerized by his rhythm and the way those golden circles emerged from the oven. That afternoon changed everything about how I approach bread making.
Last winter, during a particularly gray week, I decided to make these rings for my family as a surprise breakfast treat. My daughter stood on a stool beside me, her small hands trying to mimic my rope rolling technique, both of us covered in flour and laughing at our misshapen attempts. When they came out of the oven, warm and fragrant, we ate them standing right there at the counter, burning our fingers slightly but not caring one bit. That morning turned a dreary Tuesday into one of our favorite memories.
Ingredients
- Bread flour: The higher protein content creates that perfect chewy texture and helps the rings hold their shape beautifully
- Instant yeast: Skip the proofing step and add it directly to your flour mixture for reliable results every time
- Olive oil: Adds subtle richness and keeps the crumb tender while contributing to that crispy exterior we love
- Molasses: This is the secret ingredient that helps the sesame seeds cling and creates that gorgeous mahogany color
- Toasted sesame seeds: Take the extra five minutes to toast them first, their nutty flavor becomes infinitely more pronounced
Instructions
- Mix the foundation:
- Combine bread flour, yeast, salt, and sugar in a large bowl. Add warm water and olive oil, mixing until a rough, shaggy dough forms.
- Knead until smooth:
- Work the dough on a floured surface for eight to ten minutes, feeling it transform from sticky to silky smooth and elastic.
- Let it rise:
- Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rest in a warm spot for one hour until it has doubled in size.
- Shape into rings:
- Divide dough into eight pieces, roll each into a 40 cm rope, form into a circle, and pinch the ends firmly to seal.
- Coat generously:
- Dip each ring first in the molasses water mixture, then press into sesame seeds until thoroughly coated.
- Bake to golden perfection:
- Bake at 200°C (390°F) for 18 to 20 minutes until deeply golden and the sesame seeds are fragrant.
Save These rings have become my go to contribution to potlucks and dinner parties because they always vanish within minutes. Something about pulling apart a warm, sesame covered bread ring feels communal and comforting, like breaking bread at an ancient feast. Plus they travel beautifully and maintain their texture surprisingly well.
Making Them Ahead
The dough can be prepared the night before and left to rise slowly in the refrigerator, which actually develops more complex flavor. Just bring it to room temperature for about thirty minutes before shaping and baking.
Serving Suggestions
These rings pair wonderfully with sharp cheeses, olives, and sliced tomatoes for a Mediterranean inspired spread. They also make excellent sandwich bread, especially filled with hummus and fresh vegetables.
Storage And Freezing
Store cooled rings in an airtight container for up to two days, though they are best eaten fresh the same day. For longer storage, freeze them in freezer bags and reheat in a 180°C oven for five minutes.
- Wrap frozen rings individually in foil before reheating to prevent drying out
- Revive day old rings by sprinkling with water and warming for three to four minutes
- The molasses wash helps them stay fresh longer than plain bread
Save There is something deeply satisfying about pulling a tray of these from the oven, seeing them glistening with toasted seeds, knowing you created something so simple yet so wonderful.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What makes these bread rings crispy outside and soft inside?
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The combination of olive oil in the dough keeps the interior tender, while the molasses wash and sesame seed coating create a crisp, golden exterior during baking at high heat.
- → Can I substitute the molasses in the coating?
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Yes, honey works perfectly as a substitute for molasses. Both provide the slight sweetness and sticky texture needed for the sesame seeds to adhere properly.
- → How should I store and reheat these bread rings?
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Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days, or freeze for longer storage. To refresh, reheat in a warm oven for 5-8 minutes to restore crispness.
- → What's the best way to form the rings?
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Roll each dough portion into a 40 cm rope, bring the ends together to form a circle, and pinch firmly to seal. Ensure the connection is secure so rings don't unravel during baking.
- → Can I make the dough ahead of time?
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Yes, prepare the dough and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. The cold fermentation develops flavor. Bring to room temperature before shaping and baking.
- → What should I serve with sesame bread rings?
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These pair beautifully with Mediterranean spreads like hummus, tzatziki, or labneh. Also excellent with olives, feta cheese, or simply dipped in olive oil.
