Ingredients

2 tsp instant yeast
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp granulated sugar
4 cups all purpose flour plus 2-3 tbsp more if needed
1 1/2 cup warm water
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup grape molasses
1/2 cup water
1 1/2 cup sesame seeds toasted

Instructions

In the bowl of a stand mixer, mix sugar, yeast, 4 cups flour and salt.
Add in warm water and vegetable oil. Mix using the dough hook until the dough comes together and is a bit sticky. If the dough is not coming together, add 2-3 tablespoons all purpose flour.
Knead the dough using the dough hook for about 8 minutes until it's no longer sticky. Cover and let it rise for 1.5 hours until it doubles in size.
Meanwhile, toast the sesame seeds in a pan. And mix the molasses with ½ cup water.
After 1.5 hours, punch the dough down and divide it into 16 pieces. Roll out 2 pieces into 25 inch tubes each and lay them parallel to each other.
Roll the tubes in opposite directions to make a twist. Meet the ends and pinch them together to make a ring. Repeat with the remaining 14 pieces to make 7 more rings.
Dip each ring in molasses and water mixture then in sesame seeds and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Cover loosely and let it rise for another 20 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 400F.
Bake in the oven for 12-15 minutes until the simits are brown and fully cooked.