1 c. shortening
1 c. sugar
2 eggs
1 c. molasses
1 c. buttermilk
5 1/2 c. flour
4 tsp. baking soda
2 tsp. ginger (scant, ground)
2 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. cloves
1/4 tsp. nutmeg
1/2 tsp. salt

Cool dough and then roll out and cut in rectangular design. I use a band aid can. Roll dough to 1/4 inch thick. Bake at 350 degrees for 6-8 minutes.

FROSTING:

Soak 1 envelope plain gelatin (Knox) in 3/4 cup water in a saucepan. Add 3/4 cup sugar and bring to a boil. Boil or simmer 10 minutes. Take off burner. Stir and add 3/4 cup powdered sugar. Now beat with egg beater until foamy. Mix in 3/4 teaspoon baking powder and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Beat until thick and will not run off the cookie.

Turn cookies over and frost the under side. Let set until the frosting is dry. Store away. Can be frozen.