Homemade Sesame Rolls

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.