Kringla

I remember my Dad making a similar version of these, except that he deep fried them.  They were good but I think this might be less trouble and lower in fat - not that cookies are ever a healthy choice :)

4 cups all purpose flour
1 1/2 cups sugar
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup butter, softened
2 tsp vanilla
1 egg
Sugar

• In a large mixing bowl stir together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.  Add buttermilk, butter and vanilla.  Beat with an electric mixer on low speed till combined.  Beat on high speed for 2 minutes.  Add egg; beat for 2 minutes more.  Cover and chill the dough for at least 2 hours or till it is firm enough to handle.  It may be a little sticky to the touch even after chilling.)
• Grease a cookie sheet; set aside.  Shape dough into 1 inch balls.  On a lightly floured surface roll each ball into a 6 to 8 inch long rope.  On the prepared cookie sheet, shape ropes into figure eights.  Bake in a 375 oven for 6 to 8 minutes or till th edges are firm and light brown, though the tops will still be pale.
• Transfer cookies to a wire rack; brush tops with water to keep soft.  If desired, sprinkle cookies with sugar.  Cool completely.  Cover tightly and tore in a cool, dry place.  Makes 60 to 72 cookies