2 c. molasses
2 c. sugar
1 c. butter
2 tbsp. warm water
1 tsp. baking soda
8 c. flour
1 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. cloves
1 tsp. ground cardamom (optional)
1 c. chopped pecans

Heat molasses, sugar and butter over low heat until sugar is dissolved. Do not boil. Let cool. Add soda dissolved in water. Sift flour with spices, mix in nuts. Combine the two mixtures. Dough should be stiff.

Roll out thin on board dusted with flour and sugar. Cut into desired shapes, place on greased cookie sheet. Let stand overnight (optional). Bake at 300 degrees until just crisp but not brown.