Flaky, layered shaobing with sesame crust is a beloved Northern Chinese breakfast pastry. A family staple that pairs perfectly with soy milk for a fresh morning.
Mix the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt in a large bowl; gradually pour in the water while stirring to form a shaggy dough.
Knead the dough for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic, then cover and let it rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a rectangle. Brush evenly with scallion oil or plain oil for extra flavor.
Fold the dough into thirds, rotate 90 degrees, and repeat rolling and folding twice more for flakier layers.
Divide dough into 6 portions, flatten each into an oval, brush tops with water, and dip the moist side into sesame seeds to coat.
Place shaobing seeds-side up on a baking sheet. Let rest for 20 minutes while preheating the oven to 400°F.
Bake on the middle rack at 400°F for 18–22 minutes until golden brown and puffed, ensuring even browning but not overbaking.
Cool for a few minutes before serving warm, ideally with soy milk, to enjoy the best texture.