# Ingredient List:
→ Cookie Dough
01 - 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
03 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
04 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
05 - 1 cup granulated sugar
06 - 1 large egg
07 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
08 - 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
→ Coloring & Decoration
09 - Red gel food coloring
10 - 1/2 cup crushed candy canes (optional)
# Steps:
01 - In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
02 - Using an electric mixer, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
03 - Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until fully incorporated.
04 - Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
05 - Divide the dough evenly into two portions.
06 - Knead red gel food coloring into one portion of dough until evenly colored; leave the other plain.
07 - Roll each dough portion between parchment paper into 9 by 13 inch rectangles about 1/4 inch thick.
08 - Chill both dough sheets for 30 minutes until firm.
09 - Remove top parchment; place red dough rectangle over plain dough and gently press together to align edges.
10 - Using parchment, roll the layered dough tightly from the long edge into a log shape.
11 - Wrap the log in parchment and chill at least 1.5 hours until firm.
12 - If desired, roll the chilled log in crushed candy cane pieces for a decorative finish.
13 - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
14 - Cut the log into 1/4-inch thickness slices and place on baking sheets, leaving 1 inch spacing.
15 - Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until edges just begin to golden.
16 - Cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
