Ingredients:

• 1 cup shortening (half butter or margarine)
• 1 cup confectioners sugar
• 2 1/2 cups flour
• 1/2 tsp red food coloring
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candy
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp almond extract
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Heat oven to 375 degrees F.
• Mix shortening, confectioners sugar, egg and flavorings throughly.
• Mix flour and salt in separate bowl, stir into shortening mixture.
• Divide dough in half. Blend red food coloring into one half.
• Roll 4" strip from each color (using 1 tsp dough) back and forth on lightly floured board.
• Place strips side by side, press lightly together and twist like rope. Curve top to form handle.
• Bake at 375 degrees F on ungreased cookie sheet about 9 mins.
• While still warm, sprinkle with candy and sugar mixture.