1 c. shortening
1 c. molasses
2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 c. hot coffee
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. nutmeg
1/4 tsp. cloves
3 c. plus 1 tbsp. flour

Put shortening, molasses, soda in hot coffee. Mix until well dissolved. Mix salt, spices with flour. Add to other mixture; beat until well blended. More flour may be added.

Chill dough, roll out 1/4 inch thick. Cut with span can, bake at 350 degrees.

FROSTING:

1 env. unflavored gelatin
3/4 c. water
3/4 c. sugar
3/4 c. powdered sugar
3/4 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. vanilla

Dissolve gelatin in water, add sugar. Bring to boil, simmer 10 minutes. Stir in powdered sugar until foamy. Mix in baking powder, vanilla, and heat until thick. Turn cookies over, frost under side.