1/2 cup shortening 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 cup sugar 1 teaspoon ground ginger 1/2 cup molasses 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1 egg 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 tablespoon vinegar Oven 375 degreesIn a mixing bowl beat shortening with an electric mixer on medium to high speed for 30 seconds. Add about half of the flour, the sugar, molasses, egg, vinegar, baking powder, ginger, baking soda, cinnamon, and cloves. Beat till thoroughly combined. Beat in remaining flour.
Cover and chill for 3 hours or until cool and easy to handle.
Divide the chilled dough in half. On a lightly floured surface, roll half of the dough at a time 1/8 inch thick. Cut into desired shapes with a 2 1/2" inch cookie cutter.
Place 1 inch apart on a greased cookie sheet.
Bake in a 375" oven for 5 to 6 minutes or till edges are lightly browned.
Cool on the cookie sheet for 1 minute. Remove and cool on a wire rack.
If desired, prepare Powdered Sugar Icing, add- ing a few drops food coloring. Decorate cookies with icing and decorative candies or raisins, whatever way you want. Makes 36 to 48.
Prepare as above, except roll dough 1/4" inch thick. Cut with 4"- to 6-inch people cookie cutters. Bake in a 375" oven for 6 to 8 minutes or till edges are lightly browned.
Makes 12 to 18.