1 qt. molasses
1 1/2 c. brown sugar
1 tbsp. cardamom (optional)
2 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. cloves
1/4 tsp. ginger
1 tsp. nutmeg
1 c. buttermilk
1 1/2 tbsp. baking soda
2 eggs, beaten
1/4 lb. butter
Flour, usually around 10 c.
1 c. black walnuts (optional)
1 c. citron (optional)
1 c. orange peel (optional)

Warm molasses enough to melt sugar and butter. Mix soda with buttermilk, combine all ingredients with enough flour to make a dough you can roll, not too stiff. Cover surface with flour and let stand overnight, then roll out and cut. I like a coffee can size. These are not a crisp cookie. Bake at 375 degrees.