1 c. shortening
1 c. sugar
1 c. molasses
1 c. buttermilk
2 eggs, beaten
2 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. ginger
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. cloves
1/2 tsp. nutmeg
5 1/2 c. flour

Cream shortening and sugar; add eggs, molasses, milk and soda. Mix in dry ingredients. Drop by teaspoon on cookie sheet. Flatten with glass dipped in sugar. Bake 10 to 12 minutes at 325 degrees.

FROSTING:

1 env. unflavored gelatin dissolved in 1 c. water
1 3/4 c. powdered sugar
3/4 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. vanilla

Add water to softened gelatin and boil 10 minutes. Transfer to mixing bowl and add rest of ingredients. Mix by hand until creamy. Frost cookies.