Candy Cane Cookies - cooking recipe

Ingredients

1 c. shortening (half butter or margarine)
1 c. sifted confectioners sugar
1 egg
1 1/2 tsp. almond extract
1 tsp. vanilla
2 1/2 c. all-purpose flour
1 tsp. salt
red food coloring
1/2 c. crushed peppermint candy
1/2 c. granulated sugar

Preparation

Heat oven to 375\u00b0 (quick moderate).
Mix shortening, sugar, egg and flavorings thoroughly.
Measure flour by dipping method or sifting.
Mix flour and salt; stir into shortening mixture.
Divide dough in half.
Blend red food coloring into one half.
Roll a 4-inch strip (using 1 teaspoon dough) of each color.
For smooth, even strips, roll them back and forth on lightly floured board. Place strips side by side; press lightly together and twist like rope.
For best results, complete cookies one at a time.
Place on ungreased baking sheet.
Curve top to form handle of cane.
Bake about 9 minutes until lightly browned.
While still warm, sprinkle with mixture of peppermint candy and sugar.
Makes about 4 dozen candy canes.