3/4 c. flour
1/2 c. brown sugar
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1/8 tsp. each: nutmeg, ginger and cloves (optional)
2 tbsp. shortening
1/2 c. molasses
1 egg yolk
1/2 tsp. baking soda
3/4 c. boiling water

Combine flour, sugar and spices; work in shortening. Beat molasses, egg yolk and soda dissolved in hot water; pour into pastry-lined pan in layers of crumbs and liquid. Top with crumbs.

Bake at 450 degrees until crust edges start to brown; reduce heat to 375 degrees and bake until firm, about 20 minutes. Serve plain or with whipped cream. Yield: 6 servings.