Koulourakia (butter cookies)

Nice with a cup of coffee!

• Ready In: 50 mins
• Yields: 4 dozen

Ingredients

• 2 1⁄4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1⁄4 teaspoons baking powder
• 1⁄4 teaspoon salt
• 1⁄2 cup butter, softened
• 1  cup powdered sugar
• 1  egg
• 2  tablespoons brandy or 2  tablespoons milk
• 1  teaspoon vanilla
• 1  egg yolk, beaten together with
• 1  tablespoon milk
• 3  tablespoons sesame seeds

Directions

1. Combine the flour, baking powder, salt and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine butter and sugar and beat until fluffy.
3. Add egg, brandy and vanilla, beating well.
4. Add flour mixture, a little at a time, beating in well after each addition.
5. On a lightly floured surface, roll 1 teaspoon of dough into a 6-inch rope, fold in half and twist 2 or 3 times, pinch ends together.
6. Place 1 inch apart on 3 greased cookie sheets.
7. Brush with egg/milk mixture.
8. Sprinkle with sesame seeds.
9. Bake 10-13 minutes in a preheated 180C (375F) oven until golden.
10. Cool on rack.
11. Store in an air tight container at room temperature.