Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 550-600 g of wheat flour (approximately 5 cups)
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 7 g dry yeast (about 1.5 teaspoons)
• 8 g salt (about 1/2 teaspoon)
• 1 egg + 1 egg yolk
• 250 ml warm milk (1 cup)
• 40 ml vegetable oil (3 tablespoons)
• Sesame seeds (for topping)

Steps to Make the Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, combine 250 ml of warm milk with 1 tablespoon of sugar. Stir gently to dissolve the sugar, then sprinkle the 7 g of dry yeast over the milk mixture. Allow the yeast to bloom for about 5 minutes. You should see the mixture become frothy as the yeast activates, which indicates that the yeast is working properly.

In a large mixing bowl, combine 550-600 g of wheat flour and 8 g of salt. Stir to evenly distribute the salt through the flour. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture.

Next, pour the yeast mixture into the well, followed by 1 egg and 1 egg yolk. Add the 40 ml of vegetable oil into the mixture as well. Using a spoon or your hands, begin mixing the ingredients together. Once the dough starts to come together, transfer it to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much.

Step 2: Let the Dough Rise

Once the dough is kneaded, shape it into a ball and place it back into the mixing bowl. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for 50-60 minutes. The dough should double in size. This resting period is essential for developing the flavor and texture of the bread.

Step 3: Shape the Rolls

After the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air bubbles. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and divide it into 12-16 equal portions, depending on the size of rolls you prefer. Shape each portion into a ball by pulling the edges of the dough towards the center and rolling it between your hands to form a smooth ball.

Place the shaped dough balls on a greased baking tray or one lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between each roll for expansion during baking.

Step 4: Prepare for Baking

In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and a tablespoon of milk to create an egg wash. Brush the top of each roll with the egg wash to give the rolls a beautiful golden color once they’re baked. Sprinkle a generous amount of sesame seeds on top of each roll. This step adds a delightful crunch and flavor that complements the softness of the bread.

Step 5: Bake the Rolls

Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F). Place the tray in the oven and bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and have a hollow sound when tapped on the bottom. Keep an eye on the rolls towards the end of the baking time to ensure they don’t overbake.

Once done, remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Prep Time

• 20 minutes

Cooking Time

• 30 minutes

Total Time

• 1 hour 30 minutes (including rise time)

Servings

• 12-16 rolls (depending on size)

Why This Recipe is Timeless

This recipe for Homemade Sesame Rolls taps into the fundamental joy of bread-making. Bread has been a staple food in cultures all over the world for thousands of years. Whether served as a side to a grand feast or enjoyed simply with a spread of butter, bread is universal. This recipe takes a simple, time-tested approach to bread making, using basic ingredients to create something extraordinary.

The key to the timelessness of these rolls lies in their simplicity. There’s no need for fancy ingredients or complicated techniques. With just a few pantry staples, you can create soft, flavorful rolls that are sure to impress anyone who tries them. The sesame seeds add a touch of flavor and texture, making them an ideal accompaniment to a variety of meals. Whether you’re serving them with a rich stew, a salad, or even a bowl of soup, these rolls are versatile and adaptable to any meal.

Furthermore, the process of making these rolls allows for creativity. You can experiment with different types of seeds or add herbs to the dough to make it your own. The options for customization are endless, yet the core of the recipe remains simple and reliable—making it a timeless addition to any baker’s repertoire.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per Roll)

• Calories: 170 kcal
• Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 100mg

FAQs

1. Can I use a bread machine to make this dough? Yes, you can use a bread machine to mix and knead the dough. Follow your machine’s instructions for the dough setting. Once the dough is ready, proceed with shaping the rolls and baking as instructed.
2. Can I make these rolls gluten-free? While this recipe calls for wheat flour, you can substitute it with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Be sure to add a binding agent like xanthan gum if your flour blend requires it.
3. How can I store leftover rolls? Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage. To reheat, place them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their softness and freshness.
4. Can I add other toppings besides sesame seeds? Absolutely! You can sprinkle poppy seeds, sunflower seeds, or even grated cheese on top before baking. Experiment with different toppings to suit your preferences.

Tips for Making the Perfect Rolls

• Don’t rush the rising time. Allow the dough to rise fully to achieve the softest rolls. The more time you give it to rise, the fluffier and more flavorful your rolls will be.
• Use warm milk and warm water for yeast activation—not hot, as this can kill the yeast.
• If you don’t have sesame seeds, you can top the rolls with any seeds or nuts you prefer, or even leave them plain for a more classic look.
• Make the dough ahead of time: You can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the fridge overnight. Shape the rolls and bake them the next day for an easy, fresh breakfast or side dish.

Storage Tips

• Room temperature: Keep your rolls in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature.
• Freezing: To freeze, place the rolls in a zip-top bag or airtight container and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven to restore their fluffy texture.

Conclusion

Homemade Sesame Rolls are more than just a delicious baked good; they’re a symbol of how simple ingredients and a little time can come together to create something extraordinary. Whether served for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, these rolls are perfect for any occasion. They’re soft, golden, and topped with crunchy sesame seeds that add an irresistible flavor. The best part? The process is easy to follow, and the results are always worth the wait.

This recipe is timeless because it honors the tradition of bread-making with ingredients that are simple, wholesome, and familiar. Once you experience the joy of freshly baked rolls from your own kitchen, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again. Whether you’re a beginner baker or an experienced cook, these sesame rolls will always be a hit. So, gather your ingredients and enjoy the delicious process of creating something special—your family and friends will thank you!