Accordion Pleated Cookies

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

2. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, and mix until well combined.

3. Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing until a smooth dough forms. If you want to add food coloring, divide the dough into separate portions and add a few drops of your desired color to each portion. Mix until the color is evenly distributed.

4. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

5. Roll out the cookie dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼ inch thickness. Use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter to cut the dough into long strips, about ½ inch wide.

6. Take each strip of dough and gently twist it to create a spiral shape, then fold it back and forth in an accordion pleat pattern. Place the pleated cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie.

7. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

8. Once the cookies are completely cooled, you can decorate them with sprinkles or dust them with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.

9. Serve these delightful accordion pleated cookies on a pretty platter and watch as your guests marvel at both the taste and the appearance of these unique treats.