1/2 c. shortening
2 1/2 c. flour
1/2 c. sugar
1/2 c. molasses
1 egg
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. ginger
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. cloves

Beat shortening in a mixing bowl with electric mixer on medium speed for 30 seconds, until softened. Add the sugar, molasses, egg, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves and about 1/2 the flour. Beat until combined. Beat or stir in remaining flour. Divide dough in half. Cover and chill for 3 hours or until easy to handle. Roll each half 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick. Cut into desired shapes. Place 1 inch apart on greased cookie sheet. Bake at 375 degrees for 5 or 6 minutes or until edges are firm. Let cool 1 minute on cookie sheet. Frost with favorite frosting.