Cheese-Filled Simit Poğaça

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Introduction

Cheese-Filled Simit Poğaça combines two beloved Turkish bakery classics into one irresistible pastry. These soft, fluffy bread rings are generously filled with melted Kashar cheese, coated in toasted sesame seeds, and baked until beautifully golden. The result is a delicious contrast between a tender, pillowy interior and a slightly crisp, nutty exterior. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, tea time, or an afternoon snack, these homemade pastries are sure to become a favorite.

Origin

This recipe is inspired by two iconic Turkish baked goods: Simit, the country’s famous sesame-crusted bread ring, and Poğaça, a soft yeast pastry traditionally filled with cheese, potatoes, or meat. Combining the rich cheese filling of poğaça with the signature molasses-coated sesame crust of simit creates a modern bakery-style pastry that captures the best qualities of both classics.

Cultural Significance

Freshly baked pastries are an important part of Turkish culinary culture. Simit is a popular street food enjoyed daily with tea, while poğaça is commonly served for breakfast, family gatherings, and afternoon tea. This hybrid pastry reflects Turkey’s rich baking traditions and the country’s appreciation for sharing warm, homemade bread with family and friends.

Ingredients Quantity

For the Dough

  • 1 cup warm milk
  • 1 Turkish tea glass warm water (about 100 ml)
  • 1 Turkish tea glass vegetable oil (about 100 ml)
  • 1 large egg (white for the dough, yolk reserved for topping)
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 packet (10 g) instant yeast
  • 4½–5 cups all-purpose flour (add gradually)

For the Filling

  • 250 g Kashar cheese, coarsely grated

For the Sesame Coating

  • 1 Turkish tea glass molasses
  • 1 Turkish tea glass water
  • Plenty of toasted sesame seeds

For the Topping

  • Reserved egg yolk
  • 2 tablespoons milk

Optional Additions

Customize your simit poğaça with these delicious ingredients:

  • Mozzarella cheese
  • Cheddar cheese
  • Crumbled feta cheese
  • Fresh parsley
  • Chopped dill
  • Black olives
  • Green olives
  • Spinach
  • Jalapeños
  • Nigella seeds
  • Poppy seeds
  • Red pepper flakes

Tips for Success

  • Use warm milk and water to activate the yeast without overheating it.
  • Add the flour gradually to create a soft, elastic dough.
  • Allow the dough to rise until doubled in size for the fluffiest texture.
  • Seal the cheese filling tightly to prevent leakage during baking.
  • Dip each pastry completely into the molasses-water mixture before coating with sesame seeds for an authentic simit flavor and color.
  • Use plenty of toasted sesame seeds for maximum crunch and aroma.
  • Let the pastries rest for about 5 minutes after baking before serving to allow the cheese to set slightly.
  • Enjoy while still warm for the best stretchy cheese texture.

Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, warm water, sugar, and instant yeast.

Stir gently and let the mixture rest for 5 minutes until slightly foamy.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

Add the vegetable oil, egg white, and salt.

Gradually mix in the flour while kneading until a soft, smooth dough forms.

Cover the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm place for 45–60 minutes, or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Shape the Pastries

Divide the risen dough into mandarin-sized portions.

Roll each portion into a long strip, place a generous amount of grated Kashar cheese along the center, and seal the dough around the filling to form a rope.

Join the ends together to create a ring.

Step 4: Coat with Molasses and Sesame

Mix the molasses and water in a shallow bowl.

Dip each ring into the mixture, then coat generously with toasted sesame seeds.

Arrange the rings on a parchment-lined baking tray.

Cover loosely and let them proof for 20 minutes.

Step 5: Bake

Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).

Whisk together the reserved egg yolk and milk.

Brush the tops of the pastries lightly with the egg mixture.

Bake for 22–28 minutes, or until the pastries are beautifully golden brown.

Allow them to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Description

These Cheese-Filled Simit Poğaça feature an incredibly soft and airy interior wrapped around gooey melted Kashar cheese. Their distinctive sesame-coated crust, enhanced with a light molasses glaze, provides a slightly crisp exterior and a rich, nutty flavor that perfectly complements the warm, stretchy cheese filling.

Nutritional Information

Approximate per serving (1 pastry):

  • Calories: 360
  • Protein: 13 g
  • Carbohydrates: 37 g
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 45 mg
  • Sodium: 390 mg
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Calcium: 220 mg
  • Iron: 2 mg

Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Conclusion

Cheese-Filled Simit Poğaça brings together the best features of two Turkish bakery favorites in one delicious pastry. With its fluffy homemade dough, rich melted cheese filling, and crunchy sesame crust, it’s an ideal recipe for breakfast, brunch, tea time, or sharing with family and friends.

Recommendation

Serve these pastries warm with freshly brewed Turkish tea, black coffee, or ayran. Complete your breakfast table with sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, boiled eggs, and fresh herbs for a traditional Turkish-style meal. They can also be packed for picnics or lunchboxes and reheated briefly in the oven to restore their crisp exterior and soft interior.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

Freshly baked pastries can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet when paired with wholesome foods. For a more nutritious version, substitute part of the white flour with whole wheat flour, use reduced-fat cheese, or include chopped spinach or herbs in the filling. Serving these pastries alongside fresh vegetables and fruit creates a satisfying, balanced meal while preserving the authentic flavors and textures that make them so special.

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