1/2 c. shortening
1/2 c. sugar
1/2 c. dark molasses
1/4 c. water
2 1/2 c. all-purpose flour
3/4 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. baking soda
3/4 tsp. ginger
1/4 tsp. allspice
Raisins
Candied cherries or red gum drops
Citron
String licorice
Decorator's icing

Cream shortening and sugar. Blend in molasses, water, flour, salt, soda, ginger, nutmeg, and allspice. Cover; chill 2 to 3 hours.

Heat oven to 375 degrees. Roll dough 1/4 inch thick on lightly floured cloth-covered board. Cut with gingerbread boy cutter; place on ungreased baking sheet.

Press raisins into dough for eyes, nose, and buttons. Use bits of candied cherries and strips of citron and string licorice for other trims such as hat, boots, buttons, outline of shirt or pants. Bake 10-12 minutes. Immediately remove from baking sheet. Cool. Trim with decorator's icing.