1/2 c. butter
1/2 c. shortening
1 1/2 c. sugar
1/2 c. molasses
2 eggs
4 c. plain flour
1/2 tsp. salt
2 1/4 tsp. baking soda
2 1/4 tsp. ginger
1 1/2 tsp. cloves
1 1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. vanilla
1/2 c. sugar (for sprinkling)

Cream butter, shortening, sugar, eggs and molasses. Add dry ingredients. Mix well. Add vanilla. Drop by spoonful on baking sheet.

Bake at 350°F for 9 to 11 minutes.