1 egg
1 c. sugar
1/2 c. melted butter or other shortening
1/2 c. molasses
3 c. flour, more if needed
1/4 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. vanilla
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. soda, dissolved in 1/2 c. hot water

Add raisins or cut up dates, if desired. Drop from top onto cookie sheets and bake in moderate oven (400 degrees) for 8 to 12 minutes.