1/4 c. hot water
1 tsp. baking soda
4 1/2 c. sifted plain flour
2 tsp. ginger
2 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. salt
1 c. shortening (vegetable oil, butter or mixed)
1 c. brown sugar, packed
1 egg
1 c. molasses
3/4 c. cold black coffee

Dissolve soda in hot water and set aside to cool.

Mix and sift together the flour, spices and salt.

Cream shortening and sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in unbeaten egg. Mix well.

Add molasses. Mix well. Add sifted dry ingredients alternately with coffee, beating well after each addition.

Stir in baking soda and water mixture.

Drop by teaspoonful on cookie sheet and bake at 425°F or chill thoroughly, roll out and cut gingerbread men or any cookie shape that you prefer.

Store in an airtight container. Freezes well.