1 c. shortening
1 c. sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 c. hot coffee
1/2 c. molasses
4 c. flour
1 tsp. cloves
2 tsp. ginger
1 tsp. cinnamon

Cream shortening. Add sugar. Beat in eggs. Soda may be dissolved in coffee or added to flour. Add coffee-molasses mixture alternately with flour and spices. Chill.

Roll to 1/2-inch thick and use cookie cutters suitable for season. Bake slowly at 350 degrees. Frost when cooled.