Swirled Mint Cookies

1. 1

   Combine flour and baking powder.

2. 2

   In a large mixer bowl, beat butter or margarine until softened.

3. 3

   Add sugar and beat until fluffy.

4. 4

   Add egg, vanilla and peppermint extract; beat well.

5. 5

   Add flour mixture and beat until well mixed.

6. 6

   Divide into thirds.

7. 7

   Stir red coloring into one, stir green and leave third plain.

8. 8

   Cover each and chill about 1 hour.

9. 9

   Roll each of the doughs into 1/2-inch diameter ropes.

10. 10

    Using one rope of each color, braid the colors. Slice the twisted ropes into 1/2-inch pieces.

11. 11

    Shape each slice into a ball.

12. 12

    Place on cookie sheet and flatten to 1/4-inch thick with bottom of glass that has been dipped in sugar.

13. 13

    Bake in a 375u00b0 oven until done (8 to 10 minutes for large cookies and 6 to 8 minutes for small ones).

14. 14

    Remove and cool.

15. 15

    Makes about 72 (2 1/2-inch) or 144 (1 1/4-inch) cookies.

No additional tips available.