Greek Easter Cookies from Smyrna

I halved the recipe since the original below yields 5 dozen!
Allrecipes.com – By Rosina

Ingredients

• 2 cups butter
• 1 1/2 cups white sugar
• 4 egg yolks
• 1/2 cup milk
• 8 cups sifted all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1 egg

Directions

1. Sift together flour and baking powder and set aside. In large bowl, cream together butter and sugar. Add 4 egg yolks one at a time, beating well after each one. Add milk and flour.
2. Work with the hands until dough is smooth. Add grated orange rind. Dough should be stiff so add additional flour if needed.
3. Break off small portions of dough and roll out into pencil-size strips about 11 inches long. Fold each strip into thirds, sideways, and press lightly together at ends.
4. Place cookies on ungreased baking sheet. Brush tops with beaten egg. Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 18 to 20 minutes.