Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.

Sift together the flour and baking powder. In a large bowl combine oil and butter. Add the orange juice, sugar, nuts, and cognac. Gradually mix flour into batter by hand and knead until a dough is formed that does not stick to the hands. Add more flour if necessary. Shape dough into small ovals, and place on ungreased baking sheets. Bake for 10 minutes. Lower oven temperature and bake for 25 more minutes or until well browned.

Meanwhile, make the syrup. Combine the remaining ingredients in a saucepan. Bring to a boil and boil vigorously for 15 minutes. Keep saucepan simmering.

Dip 7 or 8 cookies at a time to the warm syrup, letting them remain for 2 or 3 minutes. Remove and place on baking sheets to drain.