1/2 c. shortening
1 c. sugar
2 eggs
1 c. dark molasses
1/4 tsp. ginger
1/4 tsp. allspice
1/4 tsp. cinnamon
3 c. flour
1 c. strong hot coffee
1 tsp. baking soda

Preheat oven to 350°F.

Mix well the shortening, sugar and eggs. Add molasses, ginger, allspice and cinnamon. Slowly mix in alternately the flour with the soda dissolved in the hot coffee.

Bake for approximately 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.