Biscotti Regina (Sesame Cookies)

Found this in the Sopranos Family Cookbook. Wonderful biscotti-like cookie. You need a hand mixer with 2 rotary blades to mix the butter into the flour mixture, that does take a bit of time, KitchenAid with one blade won't work. Also cut the butter into small cubes first and then allow it to soften, eggs should be room temp too. I found making all the logs first (lay them down a wax paper) was the best way or have someone make the logs for you then you dip in milk and sesame seeds will make the process go faster. You won't regret the time it takes to make them. Have a glass of wine, express, or tea with your biscotti....whatever make you :-)

• Ready In: 1 hr 30 mins
• Yields: 50 cookies

Ingredients

• 1⁄2 cup milk
• 2  cups sesame seeds
• 4  cups all-purpose flour
• 1  cup sugar
• 3 1⁄2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
• 1⁄2 lb unsalted butter, cut into pieces and softened
• 2  large eggs, room temperature
• 1  teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1  teaspoon  grated orange zest

Directions

1. Preheat oven 375°F; butter and flour two large baking sheets.
2. Pour milk into a shallow bowl. Spread sesame seeds on a piece of wax paper. Set aside.
3. In the large bowl of an electric mixer, stir together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. On Low speed, beat in the butter a little at a time.
4. In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs, vanilla, and orange zest. Stir the egg mixture into the dry ingredients until well blended.
5. Pinch off a piece of dough the size of a golf ball and shape into a log 2 1/2 inches long and 3/4 inch thick.
6. Dip the log in the milk, then roll it in the sesame seeds. Place on a prepared baking sheet and flatten slightly. Continue with the remaining dough, placing cookies about 1 inch apart.
7. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until well browned. Let cool on the baking sheets for 10 minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool completely. Store in airtight container.