If you are craving a delightful twist on a classic Georgian favorite, this Sesame Khachapuri Recipe is an absolute must-try. This irresistible cheese-filled bread boat, kissed with nutty sesame seeds and a golden crust, combines melty cheeses and fluffy dough in perfect harmony. It’s warm, satisfying, and packed with texture and flavor that will have you baking this gorgeous dish over and over again. Whether you want to impress guests or enjoy a comforting meal yourself, this Sesame Khachapuri Recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple, yet each one plays an essential role in creating the aromatic, tender, and cheesy goodness of Sesame Khachapuri. From the yeast that makes the dough light and airy to the blend of cheeses that fills every bite, every item brings something special to your dish.
- Active Dry Yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons): This is the magic that makes your dough rise beautifully and become fluffy.
- Sugar (1 teaspoon): Feeds the yeast for proper fermentation and a subtle touch of sweetness.
- Warm Water (¾ cup, 110°F): Perfect temperature to activate the yeast without killing it.
- All-Purpose Flour (1 ½ cups, plus more): Forms the sturdy yet tender base of your dough.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances flavor and enhances the dough’s complexity.
- Olive Oil (1 tablespoon, plus 1 teaspoon for egg wash): Adds moisture and a silky richness to the crust.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup): Offers that perfect meltiness and mild flavor every khachapuri needs.
- Crumbled Feta Cheese (½ cup): Adds tangy depth and a creamy bite.
- Shredded Low-Moisture Part-Skim Ricotta or Farmer’s Cheese (½ cup): Gives a smooth, slightly grainy texture that balances the cheeses.
- Eggs (3 total): One mixed into the filling for binding, two optional for topping to add richness and visual appeal.
- Sesame Seeds (1 tablespoon): Brings a toasty crunch and attractive finish to the crust.
How to Make Sesame Khachapuri Recipe
Step 1: Activate the Yeast and Prepare the Dough
Start by mixing warm water, sugar, and yeast in a small bowl. Let this mixture rest for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy — this ensures your yeast is alive and ready to leaven the dough. In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt, then add the yeast mixture along with olive oil. Stir everything to form a cohesive dough, then turn it out onto a floured surface to knead for 6 to 8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Pop the dough into a greased bowl and cover it, letting it rise until it has doubled in size, which takes about an hour.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Filling
While the dough rises, combine the shredded mozzarella, crumbled feta, and ricotta cheeses with one egg in a medium bowl. This mixture will give you that luscious, creamy filling that melts just right inside the bread.
Step 3: Shape the Khachapuri Boats
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release air bubbles and split it into two equal parts. Roll each into a 9 to 10-inch oval shape on your working surface. Place the dough pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spoon the cheese mixture down the center of each oval, leaving about a one-inch border on the sides. Then carefully roll the long edges inwards toward the center, pinching and twisting the ends to seal a beautiful boat shape that will hold all that cheesy goodness.
Step 4: Add the Topping and Bake
Brush the exposed dough with a glossy egg yolk combined with olive oil for that irresistible golden-brown finish. Sprinkle generously with sesame seeds, covering the crust for both texture and eye appeal. Bake these beauties at 450°F (230°C) for 12 to 14 minutes until the dough is golden and the cheese is bubbling invitingly. If you’re feeling traditional and extra indulgent, take the khachapuri out briefly, crack an egg into each center, and return to the oven for 3 to 5 minutes just until the egg whites set, leaving a luscious yolk inviting you in.
How to Serve Sesame Khachapuri Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your serving presentation, sprinkle fresh herbs like chopped parsley or dill over the top. A little cracked black pepper or a dusting of smoked paprika also adds depth. These simple garnishes bring fresh aroma and vibrant color that complement the richness of the cheese and the nuttiness of the sesame crust.
Side Dishes
This cheese bread boat shines on its own, but for a fuller meal, serve it alongside crisp, fresh salads. A bright cucumber and tomato salad or a tangy pickled vegetable plate balances the warmth and richness perfectly. Roasted vegetables or a hearty bowl of soup also make for comforting companions.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to get playful? Slice your khachapuri into wedges and arrange them on a wooden board surrounded by bowls of dipping sauces like spicy harissa, tangy tzatziki, or a drizzle of honey for contrast. You can also customize fillings by mixing in sautéed spinach or fresh herbs, making each loaf uniquely delightful.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or place in an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, they will keep well for up to 2 days while maintaining their flavor and texture.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked shaped khachapuri boats, wrapped well in plastic wrap then foil, for up to a month. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed for a fresh-out-of-the-oven experience any time you crave this treat.
Reheating
Reheat slices at 350°F (175°C) in the oven for 8 to 10 minutes to restore that crisp crust and melty cheese; avoid microwaving as it can make the crust soggy and the cheese rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of mozzarella, feta, and ricotta?
Absolutely! The key to the Sesame Khachapuri Recipe is combining melty and tangy cheeses. You can experiment with cheeses like fontina, quark, or even cream cheese, but make sure to balance textures and flavors for the best results.
Is it necessary to add the egg on top?
The egg on top is a traditional finishing touch that adds richness and visual appeal, but it is entirely optional. Your khachapuri will still be delicious without it.
Can I make the dough without yeast?
Yeast is essential for the characteristic fluffy and chewy texture of khachapuri dough. Using baking powder or baking soda will not achieve that same airy quality, so it’s best to stick with yeast for this recipe.
How can I make this recipe vegan-friendly?
To veganize this Sesame Khachapuri Recipe, substitute the cheeses with plant-based alternatives like vegan mozzarella and ricotta, and use flax eggs or other egg replacers. Also, replace the egg wash with milk alternatives or oil for brushing.
What’s the best way to get a crispy crust?
Brushing with egg yolk mixed with olive oil before baking and baking at a high temperature helps develop a gorgeous crisp, golden crust. Make sure to preheat your oven fully and bake on a parchment-lined tray so heat circulates evenly.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you’re inspired to dive into this Sesame Khachapuri Recipe and experience the magic of its crispy sesame crust and luscious cheesy filling for yourself. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug baked into bread, perfect for sharing or savoring solo. Once you try it, it will feel impossible not to make it again and again, filling your kitchen and home with the delicious essence of Georgian-inspired comfort.
Print
Sesame Khachapuri Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 1 hour rise time)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 2 khachapuri (4 servings)
- Category: Main Course, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Georgian-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Sesame Khachapuri is a delightful Georgian-inspired cheese bread shaped like a boat, filled with a blend of mozzarella, feta, and ricotta cheeses, and topped with sesame seeds and optionally a baked egg. This recipe offers a perfect balance of crispy, golden crust and rich, melty cheese filling, making it a delicious main course or appetizer suitable for vegetarian diets.
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ¾ cup warm water (110°F)
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus more for kneading)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the filling:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ½ cup shredded low-moisture part-skim ricotta or farmer’s cheese
- 1 egg (for the filling)
- 2 eggs (for topping, optional)
For topping:
- 1 egg yolk (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (white or a mix of white and black)
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
Instructions
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, mix the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy to ensure the yeast is active.
- Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, stirring until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the cheese filling: Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, mix shredded mozzarella, crumbled feta, shredded ricotta, and 1 egg until thoroughly combined.
- Shape the khachapuri: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 2 equal pieces. Roll each piece into an oval about 9–10 inches long. Place the dough ovals on the prepared baking sheet. Spread the cheese filling down the center leaving a 1-inch border. Roll and pinch the long edges toward the center to form a boat shape and twist the ends to seal securely.
- Apply toppings: Mix the egg yolk with 1 teaspoon of olive oil and brush this egg wash over the exposed dough. Sprinkle sesame seeds generously over the crust for a nutty crunch and beautiful appearance.
- Bake the khachapuri: Bake in the preheated oven for 12–14 minutes, or until the dough is golden and cheese is bubbling. For an optional traditional touch, remove the khachapuri briefly, crack an egg into the center of each, and return to the oven for another 3–5 minutes until the egg white is just set.
- Serve: Serve the khachapuri warm for the best flavor and texture experience.
Notes
- Using a mix of black and white sesame seeds adds beautiful color contrast and a nutty crunch.
- The baked egg in the center is traditional but optional; omit it for a simpler version.
- For variation, mix in spinach or fresh herbs with the cheese filling.
