Iced Molasses Cookies

Yield: 7 to 10 dozen, depending on size of cookie cutters.

Ingredients

Cookies

• 1 cup molasses
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup shortening
• 1 cup hot water
• 3 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• About 6 cups all-purpose flour, sifted, divided

Frosting

• 2 egg whites
• 3 cups confectioners' sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Cookies

1. In a large bowl, mix molasses, sugar, shortening and hot water. Stir to combine thoroughly, although shortening doesn't need to melt completely.
2. In a separate bowl, mix baking soda, ginger and cinnamon with 4 cups of flour. Mix into liquids, stirring to blend well. Gradually add enough of the additional flour to make a dough stiff enough to roll.
3. Chill for 1 to 2 hours before baking.
4. Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease cookie sheets.
5. Roll out dough to about 1/6 inch thick and cut shapes with your favorite cookie cutter.
6. Bake for 8 to 11 minutes until done.
7. Cool completely and frost.

Frosting

1. Beat egg whites until frothy, then beat in sugar and vanilla extract.

Notes

Cookies can also be dusted with decorative sugar or sprinkles prior to baking.