3 c. flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. cloves
1/2 tsp. nutmeg
1/2 tsp. salt
1/3 c. shortening
2 c. brown sugar
2 eggs, beaten
1 tsp. vanilla
2/3 c. milk

Sift dry ingredients together. Cream sugar and shortening in large bowl, add eggs and vanilla; mix well. Add dry ingredients alternately with milk. Let batter sit a few minutes to thicken.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly grease cookie sheets. Bake about 12 minutes. Frost with maple flavored icing, if desired.