molasses cookies

These cookies take my hubby back to his childhood. I've never had anything quite like them. They are tasty! Thanks to my mother-in-law for her recipe! She sure is one fine meal woman.

Ingredients

• 4 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 4 tsp ground ginger
• 2 tsp baking soda
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 cups shortening
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup molasses
• 3/4 cup coarse sugar or granulated sugar

Directions

1. In a medium mixing bowl stir together the flour, ginger, soda, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Set aside
2. In a large mixing bowl beat shortening until softened. Gradually add the 2 cups granulated sugar; beat until fluffy. Add eggs and molasses; beat well.
3. Add half of the flour mixture beat until combined. Stir remaining flour in with a wooden spoon.
4. Using a 1/4 cup ice cream scoop shape dough into 2 inch balls. Roll in the sugar. Place on an ungreased cookie sheet about 2 1/ inches apart.
5. Bake in a 350*oven for 12 to 14 minutes or until cookies are light brown and puffed. (Do not overbake or cookies will not be chewy.)
6. Let stand for 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Cool.