makes about 4 dozen
1/2C. butter or margarine softened
1/2C. shortening
1C. confectioner's sugar
1 egg
11/2tsp. vanilla
21/2C. flour
1tsp. salt
1/2tsp. red food color
Heat oven to 375 degrees. Mix thoroughly butter, shortening, confectioner's sugar, egg, and flavorings. Blend in flour and salt. Divide dough in half; blend food color into 1 half. Shape 1tsp. dough from each halt into 4" rope. For smooth, even ropes, roll them back and forth on lightly floured board. Place ropes side by side; press together lightly and twist. Complete cookies one at a time. Place on un-greased baking sheet; curve top of cookie down to form handle of cane. Bake about 9 min. or until set and very light brown. If you wish, mix 1/2C. crushed peppermint candy and 1/2C. granulated sugar. Immediately sprinkle cookies with candy mixture; Remove from baking sheet.
