1 cup shortening (at least 1/2 butter)
2 1/2 cups flour
1 cup sifted confectioner's sugar
1 tsp salt
1 egg
1/2 tsp red color
1 1/2 tsp almond extract
1/2 cup crushed peppermint candy
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup granulated sugar

Gluten Free Alternative Flour:
1 cup White rice flour
1/2 cup Brown rice flour
1/4 cup Tapioca flour
1/2 cup Potato flour
1/4 cup Almond meal - finely ground
1 tsp Xantham gum
1/4 tsp Guar gum

Heat oven to 375F. Mix shortening, sugar, egg, flavorings thoroughly. Mix flour and salt, stir into shortening mixture. Divide dough in half. Blend color into one half. Roll 4'' strips using 1 tsp dough. Press together 1 strip each color and twist & shape. Place on ungreased sheets. Bake about 9 minutes, until lightly browned. Remove while still warm and sprinkle with a mixture or the candy cane & granulated sugar. Makes about 4 dozen