Swirled Mint Cookies

Directions

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 375° 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.