Candy Cane Cookies

Original recipe from Eliza and All Recipes.

Yummy, fun Christmas treat.  They take a lot of attention, so put the kids to work!  Then keep these for yourself.  ;)

Ingredients:

• 1 c white sugar
• 1 c butter
• 3 oz cream cheese
• 1/2 t salt
• 1/2 t vanilla
• 4? drops mint extract 
• 1 egg
• 2 1/2 c flour
• red food color
• opt: ½ c crushed candy canes

Directions:

1. In a medium bowl or stand mixer, cream all wet ingredients but food color, then sift dry. Blend together, scoop half of the dough into a small bowl.
2. Add a few drops of red food coloring to the dough remaining in the stand mixer. Chill 2 hours.
3. Preheat oven to 350.
4. Using about 1 t dough, roll strips of each color, then roll in optional crushed candy canes. Twist together and shape into a candy cane. 
5. Lay on cookie sheet.  Bake 10-12 minutes.