Saint Barbara

Saint Barbara, the daughter of a pagan lived in the early fourth century. She came to learn of Christianity, was drawn to it, professed it, lived by it and was martyred for it.This is a very abreviated summary of a short life that once it was enlightened held unwaveringly to that light, professing her belief in the trinity and enduring rejection from family, persecution ,suffering and ultimately death because of it.
We made these cookies for the feast of Saint Barbara. I am not sure why people make these on the feast of St Barbara. That is some research we still need to do.
Saint Barbara cookies (Lebanese)
Ingredients
1/3 cup cooking oil
1/2 cup butter, softened
1/3 cup sugar
1 tablespoon orange juice
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
2 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup sugar
1/3 cup honey
1/3 cup finely chopped walnuts
Directions
In mixer bowl, beat cooking oil into butter until blended, beat in sugar.
Add orange juice, baking powder and baking soda,mix well
Add flour, a little at a time, to make a soft dough.
Shape dough into 2-inch ovals and place on baking sheesheet.
Bake at 350 degrees for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden.
Cool pastries on rack.
Meanwhile Prepare Natif topping: In a saucepan, combine the 3/4 cup sugar, honey and 1/2 cup water, bring to a boil.
Boil gently, uncovered for 5 minutes.
Dip cooled pastries into the warm syrup.
Sprinkle immediately with nuts.
Dry on wire rack.