1/2 c. shortening
1/2 c. sugar
1/2 c. dark molasses
1/4 c. water
2-1/2 c. flour
1/4 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. baking soda
3/4 tsp. ginger
1/4 tsp. nutmeg
1/8 tsp. allspice
raisins, citron, candied cherries, red gumdrops, string licorice
decorator icing (tubes)

Cream shortening and sugar. Blend in molasses, water, flour, salt, soda, ginger, nutmeg and allspice. Chill 2 to 3 hours.

Preheat oven to 350°F.

Roll dough 1/4-inch thick on lightly floured board. Cut with gingerbread people cutters. Place on ungreased baking sheet. Press raisins into dough for eyes, nose and buttons. Use other items to trim as you choose.

Bake 10 to 12 minutes. Remove to wire rack. Trim with decorators icing.

Makes about 1 dozen. Recipe may be doubled.