1/4 c. shortening
1/4 c. sugar
1 egg
1/2 c. molasses
1 1/2 c. sifted all-purpose flour
3/4 tsp. baking soda
1/4 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp. ground ginger
1/4 tsp. ground cloves
1/2 c. hot water

Cream together shortening and sugar. Beat in egg, then molasses. Sift together all dry ingredients; stir into molasses mixture. Gradually add hot water, beating until smooth. Fill greased muffin pans 2/3 full. Bake at 375 degrees for 20 to 25 minutes. Makes 1 dozen. NOTE: I always double this recipe.