Peppermint Candy Canes

2 1/2 Cups flour
1 tsp Salt
1/2 cup shortening, softened
1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 egg
1 tsp vanilla
1 tsp peppermint extract
1/2 tsp red food coloring

Preheat oven to 375 degrees
Cookie sheet ungreased

1. In a medium bowl, mix together flour and salt.
2. In a large bowl, beat shortening , butter or margarine, and powdered sugar until smooth. Stir in vanilla and peppermint extract and mix well. Gradually add flour until a dough forms.
3. On a lightly floured surface, divide dough into two portions. Knead red food coloring into one portion until well blended. eave other portion as is.
4. Shape 1 tsp. from each half into a rope about 4 inches long. Place plain rope and red rope side by side, twist together to make a candy cane. repeat with remaining dough.
4. Place canes on cookie sheet and, using you hand, curve the top of each to form the handle of the cane. Bake in preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes of until firm and lightly brown. Immediately transfer to wire racks to cool.