Sesame Bread is a warm, fragrant, and beautifully textured loaf topped generously with toasted sesame seeds. With its golden crust, soft interior, and rich nutty aroma, this bread is perfect for sandwiches, dipping, breakfast, or enjoying warm with butter.
Whether you’re an experienced baker or trying homemade bread for the first time, this recipe is simple, rewarding, and absolutely delicious. The sesame topping elevates it with flavor and crunch, making each bite unforgettable.
This guide walks you through everything, mixing, kneading, shaping, baking, so your sesame bread comes out perfect every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Beginner-Friendly – Easy dough and minimal ingredients.
- Soft & Flavorful – Nutty sesame crust, tender crumb.
- Versatile – Great for sandwiches, breakfasts, and dipping.
- Wholesome – No preservatives or fillers.
- Customizable – Add herbs, seeds, or sweet variations.
- Perfect for Sharing – Beautiful loaf for gatherings.
Preparation and Cooking Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Rise Time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (plus extra for topping)
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Activate Yeast:
In a bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast.
Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Make the Dough:
Add flour, salt, sesame seeds, and olive oil.
Mix until dough forms.
3. Knead:
Knead 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise:
Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise 1 hour or until doubled.
5. Shape the Loaf:
Punch down the dough and form into a loaf or round shape.
Place on parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Add Egg Wash & Sesame:
Brush with egg wash.
Sprinkle sesame seeds generously over the top.
7. Bake:
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 22–25 minutes or until golden.
8. Cool & Serve:
Transfer to a wire rack. Serve warm or room temp.
How to Serve
Plating Tips:
Drizzle warm slices with honey or olive oil.
Slice diagonally for sandwiches.
Perfect Pairings:
- Butter & jam
- Hummus or tahini
- Soups & stews
- Olive oil + herbs
Leftover Uses:
- Garlic toast
- Croutons
- French toast
- Sandwiches
Beverage Pairing:
- Mint tea
- Coffee
- Fresh juices
Additional Tips
- Use warm (not hot) water for best yeast activation.
- Add black sesame for visual contrast.
- Want softer crust? Brush with melted butter after baking.
- Want crunchier crust? Mist with water before baking.
Variations
- Honey Sesame Bread: Add 2 tbsp honey to dough.
- Sesame Herb Bread: Add rosemary, thyme, or oregano.
- Whole Wheat Version: Replace 1 cup flour with whole wheat.
- Sesame Rolls: Shape into 8 mini rolls instead of 1 loaf.
Storage & Freezing
Refrigerate: Up to 5 days in airtight container.
Freeze: Up to 2 months (slice before freezing).
Reheat: Oven for 5–7 minutes or toaster.
Special Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Whisk or wooden spoon
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make sesame bread without egg wash?
Yes, brush with milk or water instead.
Can I use instant yeast?
Yes, skip activation step and mix it directly into flour.
Can I knead the dough in a mixer?
Absolutely, use a dough hook for 4–5 minutes.
Can I add more sesame seeds?
Yes, add up to 3–4 tbsp if you love sesame flavor.
Conclusion
Sesame Bread is soft, flavorful, and incredibly easy to bake at home. Its golden crust and tender crumb make it perfect for any meal, from sandwiches and toast to dipping breads and sides. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you’ll create a beautiful bakery-style loaf right in your kitchen.
