1/2 c. lard
1 c. boiling water
1 c. sugar
1 c. molasses
2 tsp. baking soda
1/4 tsp. salt
1 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. ginger
1 tsp. cloves
2 1/2 c. flour
1 egg, well beaten

Mix lard and boiling water; add sugar and molasses. Sift soda, salt and spices with flour; add to lard mixture. Add egg.

Pour into 9 x 13 inch pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 35-40 minutes. Serve with whipped cream or plain powdered sugar frosting if desired. Yield 12-15 servings.