Koulouri Thessalonikis Recipe – Greek Special

Koulouri Thessalonikis is a beloved Greek street food staple—crunchy on the outside, soft and chewy on the inside, and topped with a generous coating of sesame seeds. Often enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack, these sesame-coated bread rings are a popular grab-and-go treat across Greece, especially in Thessaloniki. Simple yet satisfying, Koulouri is perfect with a cup of coffee or tea, and its subtle flavor makes it a great base for sweet or savory fillings. Let’s dive into this wholesome, classic Greek bake
- Prep Time20 min
- Cook Time20 min
- Perform Time1 hr
- Total Time1 hr 40 min
For the Dough:
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons instant dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water
- ¼ cup olive oil
For the Coating:
- ½ cup water
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 cup sesame seeds (lightly toasted)
Prepare the Dough:
In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar.
Let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
Add olive oil, flour, and salt. Mix to form a dough.
Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Cover the bowl with a cloth and let the dough rest in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).
Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Shape the Koulouri:
Punch down the dough and divide it into 8–10 equal pieces.
Roll each piece into a rope (about 10–12 inches long) and join the ends to form a ring.
In a shallow bowl, mix warm water with honey.
Dip each ring into the honey water, then coat thoroughly with sesame seeds.
Bake:
Place the coated rings on the prepared baking tray.
Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Serve:
Let cool slightly and serve warm or at room temperature.
Enjoy plain, or pair with cheese, jam, or olives.
Recipe Notes :
Flour Type : Bread flour can be used for a chewier texture.
Vegan Version : Substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
Storage : Store cooled koulouri in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in oven for a fresh taste.
Serving Suggestion : Best served with Greek coffee or fresh orange juice for an authentic Greek breakfast experience.