Molasses Sugar Cookies

Makes 5 dozen cookies.

Preheat oven to 375°. Melt shortening in a 3- or 4-quart pan over low heat (or in the microwave). Remove from heat and let cool. Add sugar, molasses and egg. Beat well. In a separate bowl, combine dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, cloves, ginger, cinnamon and salt. Add to shortening mixture. Mix well. Chill. Form into 1-inch balls. Roll in granulated sugar, then place on greased cookie sheet, 2 inches apart. Bake for 8-10 minutes.

To make gingerbread boys, add at least 1 cup flour at the beginning to make a stiffer dough, and use cookie cutters instead of rolling into balls. -- Linda Hammer