Combine the first 5 ingredients together in a bowl.

In another large bowl, use a mixer to cream together the granulated sugar, butter and shortening for about 2 minutes. Beat in the egg and vanilla until smooth. Add the dry ingredients and stir together until a dough forms.

Divide the dough into bowls and color with food coloring, stirring until well mixed and desired color is achieved. Cover dough's surface with plastic wrap and chill for 30 minutes.

Shape dough into little balls or rolled 'worms' then combine together to create shapes. Try and make each cookie about ½” thick, this will ensure they all cook in the same amount of time.

Place cookies on a parchment lined baking sheet, and freeze for 15 minutes before baking (this will firm up the fats that will have softened while handling).

Bake at 350°F for about 12-14 minutes, depending on thickness. Allow to cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.