Melomakarona (Greek Honey Cookies With Walnuts)
Melomakarona are traditional honey and nut Greek cookies, savored during Christmas and New Year's celebrations.
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Instructions
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Preheat oven to 3500F.
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Sift flour with baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl.
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Rub orange zest into 3/4 cup sugar to release oils.
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Beat olive oil, vegetable oil, orange juice, and brandy into the orange sugar mixture with an electric mixer.
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Gradually incorporate the flour mixture until a dense, wet dough forms; stop mixing once combined.
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Shape walnut-sized dough portions into oblong cookies and place them on an ungreased sheet.
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Press a crosshatch pattern into each cookie's center with a fork.
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Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until lightly browned.
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While cookies bake, combine honey, 1 cup sugar, water, cinnamon stick, cloves, and lemon rind in a saucepan; bring to a boil.
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Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes.
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Remove cinnamon stick, cloves, and lemon rind, then stir in lemon juice; set aside.
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While cookies are warm, immerse them in the syrup to absorb on both sides, then remove to a platter.
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Lightly press ground walnuts onto the cookie tops and sprinkle with ground cinnamon.