Sesame Bread Rings are a beloved bakery favorite across the Mediterranean and Middle East. With their crisp golden crust, soft and chewy interior, and generous coating of toasted sesame seeds, these ring-shaped breads are perfect for breakfast, afternoon snacks, or serving alongside soups, salads, and dips.

Often enjoyed warm with cheese, olives, honey, or jam, homemade Sesame Bread Rings fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked bread and toasted sesame. This easy recipe creates bakery-style bread rings that are beautifully golden on the outside and wonderfully tender inside.

What Are Sesame Bread Rings?

Sesame Bread Rings are yeast-leavened breads shaped into large rings and generously coated with sesame seeds before baking. The bread develops a slightly crisp crust while remaining soft and airy inside.

Depending on the region, they may be enjoyed plain, lightly sweetened, or flavored with spices such as mahleb, anise, or nigella seeds. Their distinctive shape makes them ideal for sharing, dipping, or slicing into individual portions.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Crispy golden crust
  • Soft and fluffy interior
  • Rich toasted sesame flavor
  • Easy to prepare with simple ingredients
  • Perfect for breakfast or snacks
  • Great with sweet or savory toppings
  • Freezer-friendly
  • Bakery-quality results at home

Ingredients

For the Dough

  • 4 cups bread flour
  • 2¼ teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)
  • 1½ cups warm water
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 2 teaspoons salt

For the Sesame Coating

  • 1 cup sesame seeds
  • ¼ cup water
  • 2 tablespoons grape molasses or honey (optional, for better sesame adhesion and a richer crust)
  • 1 egg white (optional, for extra shine)

Kitchen Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Stand mixer (optional)
  • Baking tray
  • Parchment paper
  • Pastry brush
  • Small shallow bowls
  • Cooling rack

How to Make Sesame Bread Rings

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast in a bowl.

Let the mixture rest for 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

Add:

  • Bread flour
  • Salt
  • Olive oil

Mix until a shaggy dough forms.

Step 3: Knead

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface.

Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth, soft, and elastic.

If using a stand mixer, knead for about 6–7 minutes.

Step 4: First Rise

Place the dough into a lightly oiled bowl.

Cover with a clean kitchen towel.

Allow it to rise in a warm place for 60–90 minutes, or until doubled in size.

Step 5: Divide the Dough

Punch down the dough gently.

Divide into 6 equal portions.

Shape each portion into a smooth ball.

Let the dough rest for 15 minutes.

Step 6: Shape the Rings

Roll each dough ball into a rope about 18–20 inches long.

Join the ends securely to form a large ring.

Pinch the seam firmly so it does not separate during baking.

Step 7: Coat with Sesame Seeds

Mix the water with grape molasses or honey if using.

Dip each dough ring into the mixture.

Then coat generously with sesame seeds, ensuring every surface is well covered.

Place the coated rings onto a parchment-lined baking tray.

Step 8: Final Proof

Cover loosely.

Allow the shaped rings to rise for 25–30 minutes.

Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 9: Bake

Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the bread rings are deep golden brown and the sesame seeds are fragrant and lightly toasted.

The bread should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 10: Cool

Transfer the bread rings to a cooling rack.

Allow them to cool slightly before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Tips for Perfect Sesame Bread Rings

  • Toast the sesame seeds lightly before coating for an even deeper nutty flavor.
  • Seal the dough ends tightly to maintain the ring shape during baking.
  • Don't skip the final proof, as it helps create a lighter texture.
  • Avoid adding too much flour while kneading to keep the crumb soft.
  • Brush lightly with egg white before baking for a shinier crust.

Delicious Variations

Whole Wheat Sesame Rings

Replace half of the bread flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber and a nuttier taste.

Herb Sesame Bread

Mix dried oregano, thyme, or rosemary into the dough for extra aroma.

Cheese-Filled Rings

Wrap small cubes of feta, mozzarella, or cheddar inside the dough before shaping the rings.

Nigella and Sesame Rings

Combine sesame seeds with nigella seeds for a traditional Mediterranean flavor.

Garlic Sesame Bread

Brush the baked rings with garlic butter for a rich, savory finish.

Serving Suggestions

Sesame Bread Rings pair beautifully with:

  • Hummus
  • Baba ganoush
  • Labneh
  • Cream cheese
  • Feta cheese
  • Olive tapenade
  • Fresh tomatoes and cucumbers
  • Black and green olives
  • Honey
  • Fruit preserves
  • Butter
  • Scrambled eggs
  • Lentil soup
  • Greek salad

They also make excellent sandwich bread when sliced horizontally.

Storage Instructions

Room Temperature

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Refrigerator

Keeps for up to 1 week.

Warm before serving to restore freshness.

Freezer

Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

Thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven for a few minutes before serving.

Nutritional Information (Per Bread Ring)

Approximate values:

  • Calories: 340
  • Protein: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 52g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sodium: 420mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?

Yes. All-purpose flour works well, although bread flour produces a slightly chewier texture and better structure.

Why are my sesame seeds falling off?

Dipping the dough in a water-and-molasses mixture or lightly brushing it with egg white before coating helps the sesame seeds adhere during baking.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes. Refrigerate the dough after the first rise for up to 24 hours. Bring it to room temperature before shaping and baking.

Can I bake these without sesame seeds?

Absolutely. While sesame seeds provide the classic flavor and appearance, the bread is still delicious when left plain or topped with poppy seeds, flaxseeds, or everything bagel seasoning.

Can I make smaller bread rings?

Yes. Divide the dough into 10–12 portions to create mini bread rings, reducing the baking time to about 12–15 minutes.

Final Thoughts

Homemade Sesame Bread Rings are a timeless Mediterranean classic that combines a crisp, sesame-coated crust with a soft, chewy center. They're easy to make, versatile enough for breakfast, snacks, or dinner, and pair beautifully with everything from creamy dips and cheeses to soups and salads. Once you experience the rich aroma of toasted sesame and freshly baked bread, these golden rings are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.