1/2 c. shortening
1/2 c. sugar
1 egg, well beaten
About 3/4 c. hot water
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. cloves
About 2 1/2 c. flour
1/2 tsp. salt
1 1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. instant coffee
1/2 c. molasses
Nuts and raisins (optional)

Bake at 350 degrees on a cookie sheet. You can use icing on them if you like.