Koulourakia (Greek Easter Cookies)

Submitted by Cleanfreshcuisine

"Koulourakia, or Greek Easter Cookies, are a delicious, traditional family favorite!"

 

• Ready In: 35mins
• Ingredients: 11
• Yields: 4 Dozen
• Serves: 48

ingredients

• 3⁄4 lb butter
• 1⁄2 cup orange juice
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 3 eggs
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1⁄2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 cup sugar
• 1⁄8 cup milk
• 4 cups flour
• 1⁄4 cup sesame seeds (optional)

directions

1. Heat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Cream butter, sugar and vanilla.   Add 2 eggs and blend well.  Add milk and orange juice and beat on high for about 3 to 4 minutes.
3. Sift together flour, baking powder and baking soda.  Add flour to butter mixture and beat well until a soft dough is formed (add a bit more flour if needed, until dough is no longer sticky but soft).
4. Pinch off 1″ balls of dough and shape into a 6″ long  rope.   Braid the two ends together and place one inch apart on an  ungreased baking sheet.
5. Beat the remaining egg with the 2 tablespoons of water.  Brush each cookie with egg wash.  You may sprinkle with sesame seeds at this point, if desired.
6. Bake at 350 degrees for 10 to 12 minutes or until lightly browned.
7. Cool on rack.  These store and freeze well, just place in freezer bags or containers.
8. 4 Dozen.