Turkish Simit with Honey and Walnut

In a large bowl or stand mixer bowl, combine bread flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt. Add warm water and olive oil, then mix until a rough dough forms. Knead with dough hook on low speed for about 8 minutes, or by hand on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

Shape dough into a ball and place in a lightly oiled bowl, turning once to coat. Cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour until doubled in size.

While dough rises, in a small bowl stir together grape molasses and water to make the poaching syrup. Spread toasted sesame seeds on a shallow plate.

Punch down the risen dough and divide into 8 equal pieces (about 115 g each). Roll each piece into a 20-inch (50 cm) rope. Join the ends firmly to form a ring. Repeat with remaining dough.

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment. Dip each ring into the molasses syrup, then place into the sesame seeds, turning to coat evenly. Transfer to prepared sheets.

Let the coated rings rest uncovered for 15 minutes; they will puff slightly.

Bake simits for about 12-15 minutes, until deep golden brown and crisp. Rotate sheets halfway through for even baking.

Remove from oven and let cool on wire racks. Just before serving, drizzle generously with honey and sprinkle with chopped walnuts. Serve warm or at room temperature.