1 c. sugar
1/2 c. Crisco
1 c. molasses
1 c. sour milk
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
1 egg, if desired
2 1/2 c. flour
1/2 tsp. ginger
1 tsp. cinnamon
1 scant tsp. allspice
1/4 tsp. cloves
1 tsp. vanilla

If you do not have sour milk, use hot water or put 2 tablespoons vinegar in cup of milk. Let sour. Mix ingredients and bake in moderate oven (325-350 degrees) for 35-40 minutes.