FIRST PART:

1 c. molasses or cane syrup
1 tsp. baking soda
1 c. warm water

SECOND PART:

2 c. sifted all-purpose flour
1/2 c. sugar
1/2 tsp. baking soda
5 level tbsp. shortening

Mix the second part first. Put flour, sugar, and soda in a mixing bowl. Mix the shortening into the dry ingredients with the fingers to make fine crumbs.

Stir 1 teaspoon baking soda into cup of warm water. Add this to cup of molasses and beat until foamy. Line 2 pans with pastry dough and chill in refrigerator. Pour the well-beaten molasses mixture in the pie crusts. Sprinkle the crumbs evenly over the top. Bake at 425 degrees for 15 minutes, reduce heat to 350 degrees and bake 30 minutes more.