1 1/2 c. sugar
1/4 c. light molasses
1 tbsp. ground cardamon
1 tsp. ground ginger
1 tsp. ground cloves
1 c. butter
5 c. all-purpose flour
2 tsp. baking soda

In medium saucepan, combine sugar, 1/2 cup water, molasses, cardamon, ginger and cloves. Cook, stirring occasionally, over medium heat until mixture comes to boiling. Remove from heat, cool slightly, add butter, stir until butter melts. Sift flour with baking soda. With electric mixer at low speed beat flour mixture into spice mixture until blended. Cover and refrigerate overnight.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease cookie sheets. Take dough out and let come to room temperature at least 1 hour. On slightly floured surface roll out dough about a quarter at a time, about 1/8 inch thick. Cut with assorted cookie cutters. Place on greased cookie sheets 2 inches apart. Bake 6-8 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on wire rack. Continue to roll, cut and bake rest of dough. Makes 3-4 dozen.

These are better if made 1 month ahead of time and stored in tight container. They make wonderful homemade gifts to give for the holidays.