GINGER COOKIES

Ginger Cookies
(these cookies are soft and mild flavored)

1/3 cup shortening
1 cup brown sugar
12 ounces dark molasses
1/2 cup cold water
6 cups flour
1 tsp salt
1 tsp allspice
1 tsp ginger
1 tsp cloves
1 tsp cinnamon
2 tsp baking soda
3 Tbsp water

Mix shortening with brown sugar and molasses. Stir in cold water. Add flour, salt and spices. In a separate bowl, mix baking soda with 3 tablespoons water and add to cookie batter. Mix well.

Freeze dough for 10 minutes. Roll out to ¼-inch thickness on floured surface. Cut out in favorite cookie shape. Bake at 350° for 10-15 minutes.