If you’ve ever visited Turkey, you’ve likely seen street vendors selling simit, the delicious sesame-covered bread rings that are a staple of Turkish cuisine. But you don’t have to travel to Turkey to enjoy this treat! With this recipe, you can bake simit at home and add an American twist by pairing it with a delicious cream cheese spread.

Bake Turkish-Style Simit with an American Cream Cheese Spread

Ingredients:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp active dry yeast
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup warm water
• 1/2 cup sesame seeds
• 1 egg white
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup heavy cream

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, salt, and sugar.
2. Add the vegetable oil and warm water, and stir until a sticky dough forms.
3. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5-10 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
6. Punch the dough down and divide it into 10-12 equal pieces.
7. Roll each piece of dough into a thin rope, about 12 inches long.
8. Twist each rope into a ring shape and press the ends together to seal.
9. Place the sesame seeds in a shallow dish and press each simit into the seeds, covering it completely.
10. Place the simit on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving 1-2 inches of space between each one.
11. In a small bowl, whisk the egg white with 1 tablespoon of water and brush it over the simit.
12. Bake the simit for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
13. While the simit is baking, prepare the cream cheese spread by mixing together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and heavy cream until smooth.
14. Once the simit is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
15. Spread the cream cheese mixture onto the simit and enjoy!

This recipe is a delicious fusion of Turkish and American flavors. The simit is a classic Turkish bread that is typically enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack, while the cream cheese spread adds a creamy and slightly tangy flavor that is popular in many American dishes. The combination of the nutty sesame seeds on the simit and the creamy spread creates a delicious contrast in flavors and textures.

Try this recipe for your next brunch or snack time and impress your friends and family with your baking skills and your creativity in combining different culinary traditions!