In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs and almond extract. Beat until well combined. Stir in flour, baking powder, and salt.

Prior to being fully mixed, cut the dough in half. Add red food coloring to half of the dough and mix until the desired color is reached.

Form each half into a log, cover in plastic wrap, and chill at least 3 hours (or overnight).

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. On a lightly floured surface, roll equal parts red and white dough into snakes (I did about 35 grams at a time or ¼ cup). Line the red and white dough up.

Cut into approximately 3 inch sections. Roll the two colors together a little more to allow them to stick together. Twist to achieve the color twist and then form into candy canes

Place on an ungreased baking sheet (parchment paper lined would be great!) Bake 6 minutes, rotating at the 3 minute mark.

The goal is to just about be browning when you remove them from the oven.

Allow to cool 2 minutes before gently removing and placing on a wire rack to cool completely.