Simit Sesame Ring Bread

In a large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy, indicating the yeast is active.

Add the flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Mix with a spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface.

Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 60-90 minutes, or until doubled in size.

Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, about 18-20 inches (45-50 cm) long. Twist two ropes together, then connect the ends to form a ring. Repeat for all pieces.

Preheat your oven to 400F (200C). In a shallow dish, mix the molasses with 1/4 cup of water. In another shallow dish, spread out the toasted sesame seeds. Dip each simit ring first into the molasses mixture, ensuring it's fully coated, then immediately into the sesame seeds, pressing gently to adhere.

Place the sesame-coated simit rings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 18-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Let them cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.