Koulourakia (Easter Cookies)
1 C. butter
1 1/4 C. granulated sugar
4 large eggs, divided
1 T. baking powder
6 C. all-purpose flour, divided
2 t. vanilla extract
1 T. grated orange rind
1/2 jigger ( 3/4 oz.) bourbon
Shortening for the baking sheets
Preheat oven to 350�F. In a large mixing bowl, combine butter and sugar. Beat
with an electric mixer until creamed together, about 6 minutes. Add 3 eggs, one
at a time, blending well after adding each. In a separate bowl, combine baking
powder and flour. Measure out 3 cups of the flour mixture and slowly add to the
creamed mixture, combining well. Next, add the vanilla, orange rind and bourbon
and blend. Slowly add remaining flour to make a medium-soft dough.
Scoop about a generous tablespoon of dough and roll into a ball, then into a
long rope. Shape the rope in a circle (doughnut shape) or bend the rope in half
and twist the two sides together to make a small braid. Place on lightly greased
cookie sheets. Continue until all the dough has been shaped.
In a small bowl, combine remaining egg and 1 tablespoon water and beat until
blended. Brush cookies with the egg wash. Bake 20 to 25 minutes, or until golden
brown. Cool on rack and serve or store in airtight containers.
