1 c. shortening
2 eggs
5 1/2 c. flour
1 tsp. cinnamon
3 tsp. baking soda
1 c. molasses
1/2 c. hot water
3/4 tsp. salt
1 tsp. ginger

FROSTING:

1 envelope Knox gelatin
2 c. sugar
1/2 c. cold water
3/4 c. water

Mix sugar, shortening, molasses and eggs. Add dry ingredients alternately with the hot water. Chill 3-4 hours. Roll out 1/2 inch thick and cut with an empty Spam can or lid. Bake at 350 degrees for 8-10 minutes.

FROSTING: Soften 1 envelope Knox gelatin in 1/2 cup cold water and set aside. Boil together 2 cups sugar and 3/4 cup water until mixture spins a thread 12-14 inches long. Add softened gelatin. Let cool. Beat with mixer until it reaches a spreading consistency. It will be thick and creamy like an egg white icing.