2 1/2 c. sifted cake flour
1 1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. ground cloves
1 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. ginger
1 c. hot water
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 c. shortening
1/2 c. granulated sugar
1 egg, well beaten
1 c. molasses

Sift flour, soda, spices and salt together. Cream the shortening; gradually add sugar, and cream well. Add beaten egg and the molasses; blend thoroughly. Stir in sifted dry ingredients alternately with hot water. Beat until smooth after each addition. Pour into greased shallow pan (9 x 9 x 1 1/2 inch) and bake in a moderate oven (350 degrees) for 45 to 50 minutes. Or turn into greased and floured cup cake pans and bake in a moderately hot oven (375 degrees F) for 20 to 30 minutes. Makes about 2 dozen cupcakes.