In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and powdered sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.

Mix in egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract on low speed until just combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Gradually add to wet ingredients, folding until a soft dough forms.

Divide dough in half. Add red gel food coloring to one half and mix until incorporated. Chill both halves for at least 1 hour.

Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Roll pieces of colored dough into 6-inch ropes and twist the red and white dough together.

Transfer cookies onto baking sheets, leaving space between each one. Bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are set.

After baking, let cookies sit on sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.