1 c. shortening
2 c. brown sugar, packed
1 egg, well beaten
1 c. molasses (or 1/2 honey and 1/2 molasses)
4 c. flour
1/2 tsp. salt
2 tsp. baking soda
2 tsp. ginger
1 tsp. vanilla
1 tsp. lemon extract (optional)

Cream shortening, gradually adding brown sugar. Blend in egg and molasses. Beat until light and fluffy. Sift together dry ingredients and gradually blend into creamed mixture. (Dough should be soft but not sticky or tops won't crackle.) Add vanilla and lemon extracts.

Chill until well-handled with flour. Shape into 1 1/2 inch balls, roll in sugar and place on greased cookie sheets. Bake at 350 degrees for 12 to 15 minutes. Don't over bake or centers won't stay chewy.