If you love freshly baked, golden, and crispy bread, then Turkish Simit is a must-try! Simit is a traditional Turkish bread covered in toasted sesame seeds, known for its crunchy exterior and soft, chewy interior. It’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or alongside your favorite dips and spreads.
This easy homemade Simit recipe will guide you step by step, ensuring you achieve bakery-style results every time.
Why You’ll Love This Turkish Simit Recipe
✔️ Authentic Turkish Bread at Home – No need for a bakery!
✔️ Crispy & Chewy Texture – Perfect golden-brown crust.
✔️ Few Ingredients, Big Flavor – Simple pantry staples make a rich, nutty bread.
✔️ Easy to Make & Budget-Friendly – No fancy equipment required.
✔️ Perfect for Breakfast or Snacks – Pair with cheese, jam, or dips.
Ingredients for Turkish Simit
For the Dough:
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4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour (or bread flour for extra chewiness)
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1 ½ teaspoons salt
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2 teaspoons sugar
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2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) instant yeast
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1 ¼ cups (300ml) warm water (not too hot, about 100°F/37°C)
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3 tablespoons vegetable oil (or olive oil for extra flavor)
For the Coating:
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½ cup molasses (grape molasses works best, or substitute with honey)
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½ cup water
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1 ½ cups toasted sesame seeds
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Simit
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
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Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
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Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and oil and stir until combined.
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Knead the Dough: Transfer to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead for 5-6 minutes on medium speed.
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First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise for 1-1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Shape the Simit Rings
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Divide the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces.
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Roll into Ropes: Take one piece and roll it into a 12-14 inch (30-35 cm) rope.
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Twist & Shape: Fold the rope in half, twist it, then bring the ends together to form a ring. Pinch to seal.
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Repeat for All Pieces: Continue shaping until all Simit rings are ready.
Step 3: Coat the Simit Rings
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Prepare the Coating: In a bowl, mix molasses and water. In another bowl, place the toasted sesame seeds.
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Dip & Coat: Dip each Simit ring into the molasses mixture, then roll in sesame seeds to coat fully.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
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Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Second Rise: Let the coated Simit rings rest for 15-20 minutes for a fluffier texture.
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Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 18-22 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
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Cool & Enjoy: Let them cool slightly before serving!
Serving Ideas for Turkish Simit
🔹 Traditional Turkish Breakfast: Serve with feta cheese, olives, tomatoes, cucumbers, and tea.
🔹 Spread with Honey or Jam: A simple but delicious way to enjoy Simit.
🔹 Dip in Hummus or Labneh: Perfect for a light snack.
🔹 Make a Simit Sandwich: Fill with cheese, eggs, or deli meats.
Tips for Perfect Turkish Simit
✅ Use High-Quality Sesame Seeds – Toast them for extra nutty flavor.
✅ Don’t Skip the Molasses – It gives Simit its unique color and slight sweetness.
✅ Let the Dough Rise Properly – This ensures soft and airy texture.
✅ For Extra Crunchy Simit – Bake an extra 2-3 minutes for a crispier crust.
✅ Store Properly – Keep in an airtight container for 2-3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
FAQs – Everything You Need to Know
Can I Use Honey Instead of Molasses?
Yes! While grape molasses is traditional, you can substitute honey or maple syrup with similar results.
How Can I Make Simit Without an Oven?
You can pan-fry Simit over low-medium heat, flipping occasionally until crispy and golden brown.
What’s the Difference Between Simit and Bagels?
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Simit is crispy and lighter, while bagels are chewy and dense.
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Simit is dipped in molasses and sesame, whereas bagels are boiled and often topped with seeds.
Can I Freeze Simit?
Yes! Once cooled, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for 5-7 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
Variations of Turkish Simit
🔥 Cheese-Filled Simit: Stuff with feta, mozzarella, or cream cheese before baking.
🌱 Whole Wheat Simit: Swap half the flour for whole wheat for a healthier version.
🌶️ Spicy Simit: Add a pinch of chili flakes or black pepper to the sesame coating.
Final Thoughts: Why This Simit Recipe Is the Best!
✅ Simple & Authentic – Just like you’d find in Turkish bakeries.
✅ Crispy, Golden, and Nutty – The perfect homemade bread rings.
✅ Great for Any Meal – Breakfast, snacks, or even sandwiches.
✅ Beginner-Friendly & No-Fail – Even if you’re new to bread-making.
Once you try this homemade Turkish Simit recipe, you’ll never go back to store-bought bread! Try it today and enjoy the taste of authentic Turkish street food at home.
