Koulourakia (Greek Braided Cookies)

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened at room temperature


• 1/2 cup organic sugar


• 3 egg yoilks


• 1 tsp vanilla


• 4 tablespoons half-and-half


• 2 1/4 cups white whole wheat flour


• 1 tsp baking powder


• 1/4 tsp salt


• 3 tablespoons sesame seeds, untoasted

Preparation:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Line cookie sheets with parchment paper, or lightly grease.


2. Stir together flour, baking powder, and salt then set aside.


3. In a large bowl, beat sugar with softened butter for 3 minutes until creamy. Beat in 2 egg yolks (one at a time) then add vanilla. Now stir in 3 tablespoons of half-and-half. Gradually beat in the flour mixture until thoroughly combined.


4. To shape dough into twisted braids: roll dough into 1 inch balls and then roll dough out to about 6 inches long. Fold in half then twist two times. Place cookies two inches apart on the cookie sheet.


5. Beat one egg yolk with one tablespoon of half-and-half. Brush mixture over cookies and sprinkle with sesame seeds.


6. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes or until the tops are golden brown.


7. Allow cookies to cool for two minutes before removing them from the baking sheet. Transfer to rack to cool completely. Makes about 24 cookies.