Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon instant dry yeast
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 egg white
- 3 to 3½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
- ½ cup tahini
- ½ cup sugar
For the Topping:
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon milk
- Sesame seeds (optional)
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Large mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Rolling pin
- Small bowl for filling
- Pastry brush
- Parchment paper
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
- Pour warm milk into a large bowl.
- Add sugar and yeast.
- Stir gently.
- Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Foam means your yeast is alive and ready.
Step 2: Make the Dough
- Add vegetable oil and the egg white to the yeast mixture.
- Mix well.
- Add salt.
- Gradually add flour while mixing.
- Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth.
The dough should be soft, slightly elastic, and not sticky.
Step 3: Let the Dough Rise
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl.
- Cover with a clean cloth.
- Leave in a warm place for about 1 hour.
The dough should double in size.
Step 4: Prepare the Tahini Filling
- In a small bowl, combine tahini and sugar.
- Stir until smooth.
- Set aside.
The filling should be thick but easy to spread.
Step 5: Shape the Çörek
- Punch down the dough to release air.
- Divide into two equal portions.
- Roll each portion into a rectangle.
- Spread tahini filling evenly over the surface.
- Roll the rectangle into a tight log.
- Twist or coil the log into a spiral shape.
- Press lightly so it keeps its shape.
Step 6: Prepare for Air Frying
- Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper.
- Place the shaped çörek inside.
- Mix egg yolk and milk.
- Brush the top gently.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds if you like.
Step 7: Air Fry the Çörek
- Preheat air fryer to 170°C (340°F).
- Place basket inside.
- Cook for 12–15 minutes.
- Check the top. If not golden, cook 2–3 more minutes.
The pastry should be golden on top and soft inside.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
- Remove from the air fryer.
- Let rest 5 minutes.
- Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.
Perfect with tea or coffee.