1 c. shortening
1 c. sugar
3 eggs
1 c. molasses
2 tbsp. vinegar
5 c. flour
1 1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
2-3 tsp. powdered sugar
1 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. ground cloves

1. Mix shortening, sugar, eggs, molasses and vinegar together. Sift together flour, soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon and cloves. Mix with shortening mixture to make dough. Chill dough at least 3 hours.

2. Roll out dough 1/8 inch thick and cut out with cookie cutters. Place cookies on greased baking sheet and bake for 5-6 minutes in a 375 degree oven. Time will vary according to thickness of cookies. Cookies can be decorated with candies, raisins, or icing. Makes 5 dozen 4 inch cookies.