Halwa Chebakia (Moroccan Sesame Cookies)

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1. 1Step 1: Toast and stir the sesame seeds in a pan over medium low heat until light golden brown and fragrant. Measure out the 1/2 cup of them and transfer to a food processor and pulse until the seeds become a powder. Set remaining toasted seeds aside for garnishing later.
2. 2Step 2: In a small bowl combine the saffron and orange blossom water. In another small bowl combine the yeast, sugar, and warm water. Give these ingredients at least 5 minutes to bloom.
3. 3Step 3: Add the flour to a large bowl with the sesame seed powder, anise, cinnamon, turmeric, and baking powder. Whisk to combine.
4. 4Step 4: In a small bowl combine bloomed saffron, bloomed yeast, vinegar, egg yolk, olive oil, and melted butter. Whisk together to combine.
5. 5Step 5: Pour all of the wet ingredients in the dry ingredients bowl. Then add small amounts of the warm water into the bowl at a time, mixing with your hands. Continue to knead adding only enough water until it's no longer sticky, then transferring the dough to a clean surface. Continue kneading until the dough is soft and stretchy.
6. 6Step 6: Divide the dough into quarters. Working with one quarter at a time, roll out the dough with a rolling pin. Roll out lengthwise into a narrow rectangle, until 1/8 inch thin.
7. 7Step 7: Using a scalloped pastry cutter cut the dough into small squares. Cut 3 lines in the center of each square, being careful to not slice through to the edges.
8. 8Step 8: Gently hold the 1st and 3rd row of the cookie with one hand, and hold the 2nd and 4th rows with the other hand. Carefully open the 1st and 2nd rows and fold the 3rd and 4th into the gap, creating that signature flower shape. Continue this process until all of the dough is used. Let the cookies rest for at least 30 minutes before frying.
9. 9Step 9: In a saucepan, melt the honey with the orange blossom water over medium low heat, until liquid and no longer thick.
10. 10Step 10: Heat your oil over medium heat in a pot. Fry the cookies until golden brown all around. Transfer them directly into the warm honey mixture to coat all around, then transfer to a plate. Top with a sprinkle of the toasted sesame seeds and enjoy!