Molasses Ginger Cookies

Makes: 3-4 dozen

Ingredients

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ¾ cup shortening
• ¼ cup molasses
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2½ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp table salt
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 2 tsp ground ginger
• ½ tsp ground cloves
• ¼ tsp ground cardamom
• 1⁄8 tsp nutmeg
• ½ cup granulated sugar, for rolling cookie

Directions

1. Use a mixer on medium speed to beat together 1 cup sugar, shortening, molasses, and egg in a large mixing bowl until well blended.
2. Add flour, baking soda, salt, and spices. Mix at low speed until combined into a soft dough. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
3. When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350ºF.
4. Add ½ cup sugar to a small plate or bowl. Scoop cookie dough into 1-inch balls, then roll in sugar and place on an ungreased cookie sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart. Flatten slightly with the bottom of a clean glass. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until set. Transfer to a wire cooling rack.
5. Cool completely before storing in a covered container.