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Forkin
BreakfastSnack

Koulouri (Greek Sesame Bread Rings)

These traditional Greek bread rings are subtly sweet, chewy, and coated in sesame seeds. Perfect for breakfast or a light snack, they are naturally vegan and satisfying.

An original recipe by Forkin

Total time
2 hr 15 min
Serves
6
Difficulty
Medium
Per serving
428 kcal

Allergen information: may contain gluten and sesame. Always check ingredient packaging if you have an allergy.

Koulouri (Greek Sesame Bread Rings)

Mise en place

Ingredients

Ingredients

  • 380 gall-purpose flour
  • 7 gactive dry yeast
  • 15 ggranulated sugar
  • 5 gsalt
  • 250 mlwarm water
  • 30 mlolive oil

coating

  • 60 mlgrape molasses
  • 120 mlwater
  • 150 gsesame seeds

Equipment

baking sheets · large bowl · wire rack · parchment paper · shallow dishes

The method

Step by step

  1. 1

    In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, active dry yeast, granulated sugar, and salt.

    About 2 min

    Cook’s note: Ensure your yeast is fresh for proper rising.

  2. 2

    Gradually add the warm water and olive oil to the dry ingredients, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.

    About 3 min

    Cook’s note: The water should be warm, not hot, to activate the yeast without killing it.

  3. 3

    Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

    About 10 min

    Cook’s note: If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.

  4. 4

    Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

    About 1 hr

    Cook’s note: A slightly warm oven (turned off) can be a good place for dough to rise.

  5. 5

    While the dough is rising, prepare the coating by whisking the grape molasses and water in a shallow dish.

    About 2 min

    Cook’s note: Ensure the molasses is fully dissolved in the water.

  6. 6

    Spread the sesame seeds on a separate plate or shallow dish.

  7. 7

    Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

    About 10 min

  8. 8

    Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down and divide it into 6 equal pieces.

    About 2 min

    Cook’s note: For even koulouri, use a kitchen scale to weigh the dough pieces.

  9. 9

    Roll each piece of dough into a long rope, about 40-50 cm (16-20 inches) in length.

    About 5 min

    Cook’s note: Try to keep the thickness consistent along the rope.

  10. 10

    Form each rope into a ring by joining the ends and pressing firmly to seal.

    About 3 min

  11. 11

    Dip each koulouri ring first into the grape molasses mixture, ensuring it's fully coated, then immediately transfer it to the plate of sesame seeds, pressing gently to adhere.

    About 5 min

    Cook’s note: Be generous with the sesame seeds for maximum flavor and crunch.

  12. 12

    Place the coated koulouri rings on the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between them.

    About 1 min

  13. 13

    Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

    About 20 min

    Cook’s note: Baking time may vary depending on your oven; keep an eye on them.

  14. 14

    Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack before serving.

Per serving

Nutrition

72%Score
Calories
427.9kcal
Protein
11.3g
Carbs
56.9g
Fat
17.8g
Fibre
5g
Sugar
2.8g

Estimated from the recipe’s ingredient quantities. Values can vary with brands and substitutions.

Keep it good

Storage

Store leftover koulouri in an airtight container at room temperature.

Reheating

Reheat in a toaster or oven for a few minutes until warmed through and slightly crisp.