1 c. shortening
1 c. sugar
1 egg
1 c. molasses
1 c. hot water
4 c. flour
2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. ginger
1 tsp. cloves
1 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. nutmeg

Mix in order given and let stand 10 minutes in a cool place. Drop by large spoonful on cookie sheet. Frost with powdered sugar icing while still warm but not hot. When storing, put wax paper between layers so they don't stick together.

POWDERED SUGAR ICING:

1 1/2 c. powdered sugar
2 tbsp. hot water
1 tbsp. butter
1 tsp. vanilla