Cream together:

1/4 c. shortening
1/4 c. sugar

Beat in:

1 egg
Then 1/2 c. molasses

Sift together:

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

Stir into molasses mixture. Gradually add 1/2 cup hot water, beating until smooth. Fill greased muffin pans 2/3 full. Bake in moderate oven at 375 degrees for 20-25 minutes. Makes 1 dozen. I always double this recipe.