3/4 c. brown sugar, firmly packed
1/2 c. shortening
1/2 c. molasses
1 egg
3 c. all-purpose flour
2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. ginger
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 tsp. cloves

Cream together sugar and shortening. Beat in molasses and egg. Combine flour, baking powder, salt and spices. Blend into creamed mixture, mixing well to firm dough. Roll out on floured board to 1/8" thick; cut into desired shapes with cookie cutter. Place on greased baking sheet. Bake at 350 degrees for 10 to 12 minutes. Cool on rack. Decorate with decorator's frosting as desired. Makes 3 to 4 dozen.

Note: This sturdy dough is ready to roll as soon as mixed and is easy for children to handle.