1 c. shortening
1 c. sugar
1 c. molasses
2 egg yolks
4 c. flour
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. baking soda
2 tsp. each of: baking powder, cinnamon, ground cloves, ginger, and nutmeg

Cream together shortening, sugar and molasses. Add egg yolks, mixing well. Sift flour with remaining dry ingredients. Stir in flour mixture, mixing well. Wrap dough in waxed paper and chill thoroughly.

Roll out about 1/3 of the dough on well floured board. Cut with gingerbread boy cutters. Decorate with raisins, colored sugars, etc. Place on lightly greased cookie sheets. Bake in 350 degree oven for 8 to 10 minutes. Don't overcook. Cool on racks. Decorate, if you wish, with icing.