1/2 c. shortening
1 well-beaten egg
1/2 c. strong hot coffee
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. cloves
1/2 c. sugar
1/2 c. molasses
1 1/2 c. flour
1 1/2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 c. raisins (optional)

Blend shortening and sugar. Add egg and molasses. Mix in dry ingredients alternately with hot coffee. Add raisins. Bake in 9x13 inch greased and floured pan at 350 degrees for 25 minutes. Frost with powdered sugar icing while bars are warm.