Makes 5 dozen. Oven - bake at 375 degrees for 5-6 minutes. (These cookies stay soft if stored in sealed container.)

1 c. shortening
1 c. sugar
1 egg
1 c. molasses
2 tbsp. vinegar
5 c. sifted flour
1 1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
2-3 tsp. ground ginger
1 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. cloves

Cream shortening and sugar. Beat in egg, molasses and vinegar. Sift together dry ingredients and blend in. Chill 3 hours.

Roll dough 1/8 inch thick on lightly floured surface. Cut with cookie cutters. Place 1 inch apart on greased cookie sheet. Cool slightly before removing from rack. Kids love to decorate!