Ingredients
1 C. sugar
2 eggs, beaten
1/2 C. molasses
1/2 C. shortening
1/2 C. butter, softened
3 to 3 1/2 C. flour
2 tsp. soda
1 1/2 tsp. ginger
1/2 tsp. cloves
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. nutmeg
1/4 tsp. salt
1 tsp.Grated orange rind, if desired
Preparation
Mix sugar, eggs, molasses, shortening and butter thoroughly. Mix dry ingredients; add to sugar and egg to mke a soft dough. Chill, covered, for at least 24 hours. Heat oven to 375 degrees. Roll out small amount of dough t a time, about 1/8 inch or less thick on lightly floured cloth covered board. ( or parchment paper). Cut with cookie cutters. Place on ungreased baking sheet.Decorate with colored sugars, bits of citron and candied cherries. Bake 6. When cool decorate with white frosting if desired.
