We often use this recipe for gingerbread cookies.  Don't worry if you do not have cookie cutters.  We have some simple shape templates that you can cut out and then hold over the dough while you trace the shape with a knife.

• 2/3 cup shortening
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 tsp cinnamon,
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 2 tsp ground ginger
• pinch salt
• 3/4 cup molasses
• 1 egg
• 3 cups flour
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda

Cream together first 6 ingredients.  Add egg and mix.   Add molasses and mix again.

Mix together flour, baking powder and baking soda in a separate bowl.  Sift.  Add to the creamed mixture and stir until well blended.  Chill 1 hour.

Preheat oven to 375 F.  Roll out dough 1/4 at a time to 1/8" thickness or slightly thicker on a lightly floured board.  Cut with a cookie cutter and transfer to a greased (or non stick) cookie sheet.

Repeat with remaining dough.  Before baking, decorate with raisins as you like.

Place in oven for 8 - 10 minutes.

Cool on a wire rack

Decorate with icing, m&m's, chocolate chips or any other items you wish.

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