1 c. brown sugar
3/4 c. shortening
2 beaten eggs
1/2 c. molasses
2 c. flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. cloves
1 1/2 tsp. cinnamon
2 tsp. ginger
1/4 tsp. salt
1 c. hot water

Cream sugar and shortening, add eggs. Mix in rest of ingredients alternately with water. Bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes.

Frost with:

2 c. powdered sugar
5 tbsp. melted butter
3 tbsp. cream or milk
1 tsp. vanilla