Candy Cane Cookies

These cookies are so cute and really very easy to make. They take a little bit of practice to get the striping pretty, but the key is to have a cold firm dough and don't over work it. It's so worth the work. We found them fun to make!

1 tube refrigerated sugar cookie dough, softened and divided
4 tablespoons flour
1 teaspoon peppermint extract
1 teaspoon red food coloring

In a large bowl, beat cookie dough, flour and peppermint extract until smooth. Divide the dough in half and mix the food coloring into one half. Cover doughs and refrigerate for about an hour or until the dough is firm.

Shape about 1 teaspoon of each dough into six inch ropes. Lay the ropes side by side. Press together slightly and twist. Place on a cookie sheet and shape into a cane. Space the dough about 2 inches apart. Repeat with remaining dough.

Bake at 350 degrees for about 8-10 minutes or until lightly golden and set. Cool for 2 minutes, then move to a wire rack to cool.