1 cup brown sugar, packed
3 eggs
1 tbsp. baking soda
1 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. ginger
1 1/4 cups molasses
1 cup butter, softened
1 tsp. allspice
1 tsp. cloves
3 cups all purpose flour

In large bowl mix all ingredients until just mixed at low speed. Increase speed to medium and beat 2 minutes. With wooden spoon, stir in 5 to 6 more cups all purpose flour to make stiff dough. Refrigerate.

Roll out to 1/4" thickness and cut in desired shapes. Bake 12 to 15 minutes at 350°F.

Decorate as you wish with icing.

ICING:

3 3/4 c. confectioners' sugar
1/4 tsp. cream of tartar
3 egg whites

Beat on low speed until just mixed. Increase speed to high and beat until stiff.