1 c. shortening (butter, Crisco or a combo), softened
1 egg
1 c. powdered sugar
1 1/2 tsp. peppermint extract
1 tsp. vanilla or almond
2 1/2 c. flour
1/2 tsp. salt
Red or green food coloring

Preheat oven to 375°F.

Cream together 1 cup softened shortening, 1 egg, 1 cup sifted powdered sugar, 1 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract, 1 teaspoon vanilla.

Add 2 1/2 cups of flour and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Divide dough into 2 equal portions.

Add 1 teaspoon red or green food coloring to each half of the dough. Wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Twist small ropes of each color together to form candy cane shapes.

Bake on ungreased cookie sheet for about 9 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Sprinkle with powdered sugar or edible glitter while still warm.