1 c. shortening
1/2 c. white sugar
1 egg
1 1/2 tsp. almond extract
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1 c. confectioners' sugar
1 1/2 c. flour
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. red food coloring
1/2 c. peppermint candy, crushed

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Mix shortening, confectioners' sugar, egg, and flavorings thoroughly. Sift and mix together flour and salt; stir half flour mixture into the shortening mixture. Work remaining flour in with hands until dough holds together. Divide dough in half; blend red food coloring into one half. Roll a 4 inch strip (using 1 teaspoon dough) from each color.

For smooth even strips, roll them back and forth on lightly floured cloth covered board. Place strips side by side, pressing them together lightly and twisting like a rope. (For best results, complete cookies one at a time. If all the dough of one color is shaped first, strips become too dry to twist.)

Place on ungreased cookie sheet; curve top down to form handle of cane. Bake about 9 minute, until lightly browned. While warm, remove from baking sheet with a spatula and sprinkle with mixture of crushed candy and granulated sugar. Makes about 4 dozen canes.