Sesame Seed Bars Recipe (2024)

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A delicious crunchy treat for sesame lovers made with few ingredients. Sesame candy bars is very popular across many Mediterranean countries

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Chewy sesame seeds bars are pretty much common in many Mediterranean countries with variety of names. From Pasteli in Greece to Semsemeyah in Egypt, this sesame honey candy is a great gluten free snack that can be ready in less than 30 minutes.

These sesame bars along with Turkish delights are so common in Egypt during religious celebrations.

Sesame Seed Bars Recipe (1)

Why This Recipe Works

This is a foolproof recipe for sesame candy, no weird ingredients and no special equipment needed. So simple and requires only a handful of ingredients that are likely there in your pantry.

Recipe Ingredients

Sesame Seed Bars Recipe (2)

Ingredient Notes

  • Sesame seeds because this is a sesame candy, but let me expand here and say this recipe is made with almost any nut of your choice. I've seen this made with pistachios, almonds, cashews, peanuts, hazelnuts or a combination of nuts.
  • Sugar and honey are the main sweeteners here and make the glue to hold all the seeds together.
  • A little bit of water to help sugar dissolve in honey and the lime juice to help prevent crystallization.
  • Vanilla extract is optional, I just love vanilla and I add a little bit not to overwhelm the sesame flavor.

Recipe Instructions

Sesame Seed Bars Recipe (3)
  1. In a skillet over medium heat add sesame seeds.
  2. Toast until golden brown will take about 4-5 minutes.
  3. Pour the sesame seeds immediately in a well oiled bowl and set aside to cool down.
Sesame Seed Bars Recipe (4)
  1. In saucepan over medium heat mix in sugar, honey, water, lime juice and vanilla if using.
  2. Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce heat and simmer for about 5minutes.
  3. Pour the honey mixture over the sesame and mix well to combine.
Sesame Seed Bars Recipe (5)
  1. Pour the mixture over the parchment paper.
  2. Wet your hands with water and shape the sesame mixture into a square with the thickness you prefer. Let it cool completely then cut into bars

Expert Tips

  • If you do not have sesame oil you can use vegetable oil.
  • You can toast the sesame seeds in the oven but I prefer the skillet method to keep them from browning too much.
  • You can actually use this recipe for a variety of nuts and seeds. Examples are pistachios, hazelnuts, almonds...etc.

Recipe FAQs

Are sesame seeds nuts?

If you are asking because of health issues, read this. Although I have a kid who is allergic to sesame, sesame seeds are not considered tree nuts.

Do sesame seeds need to be washed?

I actually never washed my sesame seeds before and I was so surprised that some people do. If you are afraid that you might burn the seeds though, you might want to wash them to reduce the likelihood of burning them.

Sesame Seed Bars Recipe (6)

Sesame Seed Bars Recipe (7)

Sesame Candy

A delicious crunchy treat for sesame lovers made with few ingredients. Sesame candy bars is very popular across many Mediterranean countries

4.78 from 18 votes

Print Pin Rate

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Diet: Gluten Free, Halal

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Servings: 16

Calories: 138kcal

Author: Amira

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cup sesame seeds (200g )
  • ½ cup granulated sugar (100g )
  • ½ cup honey (180g)
  • ½ teaspoon lime juice
  • 1 Tablespoon water
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract optional
  • Sesame oil for brushing

Instructions

  • Generously brush a bowl with sesame oil.

  • Brush an 11”X17” parchment paper with sesame oil as well.

  • In a skillet or pan, over medium heat, add sesame seeds and toast until golden brown will take about 4-6 minutes. Stir with a spatula so the seeds will not burn.

  • Pour the sesame seeds immediately in the oiled bowl and set aside to cool down.

  • In saucepan over medium heat mix in sugar, honey, water, lime juice and vanilla if using.

  • Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce heat and simmer for about 5minutes.

  • Pour the honey mixture over the sesame and mix well to combine.

  • Pour the mixture over the parchment paper. Wet your hands with water and shape the sesame mixture into a square with the thickness you prefer.

  • Let it cool completely then cut into bars with a sharp knife.

  • Store in an air tight container at room temperature and separated by well oiled parchment paper.

Notes

  • If you do not have sesame oil you can use vegetable oil.
  • You can toast the sesame seeds in the oven but I prefer the skillet method to keep them from browning too much.
  • You can actually use this recipe for a variety of nuts and seeds. Examples are pistachios, hazelnuts, almonds...etc.

Nutrition

Calories: 138kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 2mg | Potassium: 71mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 15g | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 138mg | Iron: 2mg

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First published Jan 5, 2014. Last updated October 23, 2020 with new recipe, images, step by step instructions and readability.

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Sesame Seed Bars Recipe (12)

About Amira

I’m overjoyed that you have stopped by! My hope is to introduce you to new flavors, creative ways and fresh takes on favorites. To help you create food with style that will bring everyone around your kitchen table. From weeknight dinners for crazy busy days to desserts with the “wow” factor, and classic comforts from the Mediterranean. One thing in common, they are all recipes that have been tried and tested by family and friends.

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. scott

    I wonder if this would work using agave instead of honey?

    Reply

  2. Asha

    Hello Amira , I have a question, can we use ghee or melted butter instead of the oil thank you.

    Reply

    • Amira

      I haven't tried that before Asha.

      Reply

  3. Miska Knezevic

    Sesame Seed Bars Recipe (13)
    Top 10!

    Reply

  4. Mariehellen

    Thank you Princess for this recipe. I have just made them and I mixed with roasted coarsely grated pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds. They just came out amazingly tasty.

    Reply

  5. Nina

    This did not work out. I followed directions exactly and the bars did not set. It would be useful to include the temperature needed to cook properly. Very disappointing.

    Reply

  6. Sheila Marie

    Thank you for the recipe, Amira. I made this a few times for the office (years ago) but I lost the recipe along the way. At the moment I only have a small amount of sesame seeds left - but I also just bought some pine nuts. Maybe I'll mix, but probably not this time. I hope the pine nuts work!

    Reply

    • Amira

      Thank you so much Sheila, I am so glad you liked it.

      Reply

  7. Jane Badr

    Sesame Seed Bars Recipe (14)
    These sesame bars are to die for. Made them as a treat for my family and since then we cannot stop nibbling on them.

    Reply

    • Amira

      Thanks Jane, glad you liked it.

      Reply

  8. Marie

    Sesame Seed Bars Recipe (15)
    This recipe is one of my favorite, it is easy to make and is delicious. I like my bars thin to bite It reminds me of my childhood candy.

    Reply

    • Amira

      Thank you so much Marie for your feedback, happy you liked it.

      Reply

  9. Peggy

    Can you make these into cookies?

    Reply

    • Amira

      Peggy, you can spread them thin using a rolling pin and cut them with round cookie cutter if you would like.

      Reply

  10. Mrs B

    Sesame Seed Bars Recipe (16)
    We made this yesterday to celebrate and it was so delicious. I made them thinner so I had like 20 pieces. My whole family enjoyed this. Thank you so much Amira.

    Reply

    • Amira

      Oh, this is awesome happy you liked them dear.

      Reply

  11. Angela Gagauf

    I would love to make the sesame candy but I want to cut back on sugar. Do you know if this can be made without sugar and only honey? I know that honey is a sweetener but adding an additional 1/2 cup of sugar is too much for me. Thoughts?

    Reply

    • Amira

      Angela, I haven't tried that but here is what I have found after extensive search. Some say it does not work as it will not harden enough, others say you will need to boil the honey with a little lime juice until it reached the state of soft crack stage then add the sesame seeds. You might want to experiment with half or quarter the recipe first so you will not waste ingredients if you did not like it. I hope this helps.

      Reply

  12. Roro

    was wondering where i can order halawat el moullid here in california or is their a store i can go?

    thank you,
    Roro

    Reply

    • Amira

      I guess in California there are so many Int'l markets there. I can find some here in the Iranian marker but not quite as the ones I used to have in Egypt. That's why I am making my own :).

      Reply

      • Nadia Gardner

        Sesame Seed Bars Recipe (17)
        I am so looking forward to making these bars. Thank you for the recipe.

        Reply

        • Amira

          Thanks Nadia, let me know if you have any questions.

          Reply

  13. nora

    I can't wait to try this recipe! I can't get corn syrup where I live. Is there a substitute I can use instead? Thanks!

    Reply

    • Amira

      Hi Nora,
      I've been asked the same question in my Arabic blog - moghtareba.com- from a follower who lives in Ireland. So if you are there- or I think Europe in general- there is a good substitute called glucose or else golden syrup. Corn syrup can also be replaced by a sugar syrup. Combine one cup of pure cane sugar with 1/4 cup of water and heat over a low flame, then add 1/4 teaspoon of lemon juice, stir until it is thickened enough to reach the soft ball stage. An easier and healthier alternative is honey, although it is sweeter and might give a slightly different flavor but I think it is the best. I hope this helps you.

      Reply

  14. Sylvia

    I love sesame seeds and I would also do them bite size. Sometimes just a bite or two of something sweet after dinner is all I need. Keeps me from eating a huge dessert.

    Reply

  15. Amy

    Thank you! Thank you! Thank you for this post! I recieved a box of these sweets from Egypt last year--they were so wonderful! I searched the internet for recipes but came up with nothing. Can't wait to try this!

    Reply

    • Amira

      I'm glad to help Amy. Thanks for your comment and come back for more :).

      Reply

  16. Coffee and Crumpets

    Assalam alaikum Amira, thank you for stopping by my blog and leaving a comment. Its nice to meet a fellow CO blogger.
    I adore the sesame candies but have never thought about making any, now I have recipe to try. Thank you!

    Nazneen

    Reply

    • Amira

      I hope you'll try them one day and tell me. Take care.

      Reply

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Sesame Seed Bars Recipe (2024)

FAQs

What are sesame bars made of? ›

If you are looking for a super easy and healthy sweet snack, then this Greek honey sesame bars recipe (Pasteli) will become a family favourite! Pasteli is actually a Greek sesame candy which is the ancient version of a power bar. A snack made with only two ingredients, honey and sesame seeds, with no addition of sugar.

Is it OK to eat sesame seeds everyday? ›

Sesame seeds are a good source of healthy fats, protein, B vitamins, minerals, fiber, antioxidants, and other beneficial plant compounds. Regularly eating substantial portions of these seeds — not just an occasional sprinkling on a burger bun — may aid blood sugar control, combat arthritis pain, and lower cholesterol.

Are sesame bars good for you? ›

Sesame seeds are a real health bomb, containing plant-based proteins of high biological value, while also being a rich source of amino acids. And on top of it all, sesame tastes really good! No wonder everyone loves Jannis Sesame Bars for what they are, irresistibly yummy and unbelievably healthy!

How to prepare sesame seeds? ›

Add sesame seeds to a medium frying pan and spread into a thin layer. Cook the sesame seeds over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until they are fragrant and turn golden brown. To ensure that the sesame seeds do not burn, move the seed around the pan every 30 seconds, making sure that they are evenly toasted.

Is sesame a black or white? ›

They add flavour to food and are rich in calcium, magnesium and iron. The types of sesame seeds you are most likely to run into are brown, white and black. The first difference to be identified between black and white sesame seeds lies in their main cultivation and production locations.

What is crushed sesame called? ›

Tahini is made from sesame seeds that are soaked in water and then crushed to separate the bran from the kernels. The crushed seeds are soaked in salt water, causing the bran to sink. The floating kernels are skimmed off the surface, toasted, and ground to produce an oily paste.

Who should not eat sesame seeds? ›

Sesame seeds cause the fertilised ovum to be ejected by stimulating the uterine muscles. Sesame seeds should be avoided by all pregnant women throughout the first three to four months of pregnancy, according to experts.

When should you not eat sesame seeds? ›

Sesame may interfere with blood sugar level during or after surgery. So it is generally advised to avoid the use of Sesame seeds at least 2 weeks before undergoing a surgical procedure[2]. Sesame seeds or food products containing Sesame seeds/oil may cause allergic reactions in certain people.

What does sesame do to the body? ›

Sesame seeds are an excellent source of manganese and calcium, both of which help your bones grow healthy and strong. Calcium also plays a role in nerve signal transmission, muscle movement, blood vessel function, and hormone release. Other vitamins and minerals found in sesame seeds include: Phosphorous.

What is healthier black or white sesame seeds? ›

It's said that one serving or tablespoon of black sesame seeds offers more calcium, potassium, copper, iron, and manganese than a corresponding amount of white sesame seeds. The disparity gets more pronounced with calcium. This is because of the hulls that black sesame seeds typically possess.

What are the healthiest sesame seeds? ›

Because black sesame seeds and white sesame seeds come from the same plant, their health benefits are quite similar. However, because black sesame seeds retain their outer shells, they offer enhanced nutrition and increased levels of plant compounds, vitamins, and minerals.

Which sesame seeds are best? ›

According to ayurveda it is mentioned that black seeds are more beneficial due to their high nutritional content. The calcium is more in black ones as compared to the white ones and it is the same with iron, potassium, copper, manganese and other such minerals.

Is it OK to eat raw sesame seeds? ›

Yes it is absolutely okay to eat raw or “unhulled” sesame seeds. Actually, it is more nutritious this way. As you may or may not be aware, sesame seeds are known to have an abundance of calcium and iron in them. If eating raw sesame seeds, you may find that they're bitter in taste or too crunchy for your liking.

What's the best way to eat sesame seeds? ›

There are many ways to incorporate black sesame seeds into your diet. Here are a few ideas: Sprinkle them on top of salads, oatmeal, yogurt, or smoothie bowls for added texture and nutty flavor. Mix them into dips, spreads, or dressings for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition.

Do I need to wash sesame seeds? ›

Before you start toasting your sesame seeds, it is recommended that the seeds are either soaked overnight or rinsed in a sieve until the water runs clear. By soaking or rinsing the seeds you are removing some of the anti-nutrient phytic acids, which will prevent your body from being able to absorb certain nutrients.

Is sesame a peanut or tree nut? ›

Sesame seeds are tiny, flat oval seeds with a nutty taste and a delicate, almost invisible crunch. Although sesame seeds are classified as seeds and not nuts, the proteins in sesame seeds may resemble proteins in certain nuts and may trigger an allergic reaction in children who have a nut allergy.

Where do sesame bars come from? ›

These sesame bars known as pasteli in Greek are the original power bars. They actually go back to antiquity, the ancient Greeks had a similar recipe that included a variety of nuts and honey. Today you can pretty much find pasteli anywhere in Greece.

Why are sesame snaps so good? ›

Sesame Seeds contain a fullness-inducing trifecta of fiber, protein and fat. They are also a good source of calcium, magnesium and iron. Being high in zinc, they help boost the immune system. It also contains 35% less sugar than said leading brand.

Are sesame sticks Chinese? ›

snack, were made as the Spring Festival is. approaching.

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