3/4 c. firmly packed dark or light brown sugar
1/2 c. butter, softened
2 eggs
1/4 c. molasses
3 1/4 c. flour
2 tsp. ginger
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. each allspice, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt

In large bowl, beat sugar and butter until well blended. Add eggs and molasses. Stir in remaining ingredients. Cover and chill 1 hour. Roll dough on well-floured board until 1/8 inch thick. Cut into shapes. Place on greased baking sheet. Bake 10 minutes at 350 degrees. Cool on rack. Decorate with sugar icing as desired. Makes 24 (5 inch) cookies.

SUGAR ICING:

Combine 3/4 cup and 1 tablespoon confectioners' 10X or 4X sugar and 1 tablespoon milk and food coloring as desired.