1/2 c. butter, softened
1/2 c. solid shortening (not butter)
1 c. sugar
1/2 c. molasses
2 eggs, lightly beaten
4 c. flour
1/2 tsp. salt
2 1/4 tsp. baking soda
2 1/4 tsp. ground ginger
1 1/2 tsp. cloves
1 1/2 tsp. cinnamon

In a large bowl cream together butter, shortening and sugar until light-colored and fluffy. Beat in molasses and eggs. Set mixture aside.

In another large bowl combine flour, salt, soda, ginger, cloves and cinnamon. Blend thoroughly with wire whisk. Gradually mix flour mixture into creamed ingredients until dough is blended (quite a lot) and smooth.

Roll dough into 1 1/2 inch balls. Dip tops in granulated sugar. Place on greased cookie sheet. Bake at 350 degrees for 11 minutes. Do not overbake. Store in tightly covered container along with slice of raw apple to keep soft.