Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350° F. Grease two large cookie sheets and set aside.
2. In your large mixer bowl, combine the butter, oil, and orange zest. Blend until well combined and creamy.
3. Add in the scant cup and tablespoon of sugar; blend until well mixed. Now add in the egg, vanilla, and Cognac and continue to combine until mixed through and very creamy.
4. Slowly begin adding the flour one cup at a time, mixing each time until all ingredients are combined.
5. When all the flour is added, blend in the orange juice, baking powder, and baking soda until a smooth, creamy dough forms. The dough will be soft, somewhat sticky, and will hold together well.
6. Begin to shape the cookies by taking about 1 to 2 tablespoons of the dough and rolling it into a log shape about a 1/2-inch or so thick.
7. Note: If the dough sticks to your hands; rub a bit of olive oil on your hands before rolling. Form an upside down “U” shape with the rolled log then braid or twist the "arms" to the end and press lightly to seal.
8. Place on the greased cookie sheet and continue rolling and twisting until the first tray is full (place the cookies about an 1 inch or so apart as they do increase in size while baking.)
9. In a small cup, whisk the egg and 1 tablespoon of Cognac together until blended. Using a pastry brush, paint the egg wash over the top of the cookies and sprinkle with the sesame seeds (I prefer black sesame seeds for flavor and color).
10. Place in the preheated oven for about 11 minutes or so. These cookies need to have a light golden brown appearance and must be immediately removed from the oven to cool.
11. Overcooking them will change the flavor and texture so watch your oven temperature and cooking times carefully. Let the cookies cool completely before removing them from the tray (or they will crumble and crack.)
12. Place on a large serving platter to enjoy immediately, or, once cooled, store in containers or large plastic bags in the freezer for future use.