Ginger Cookies

1 1/2 cups shortening
2 cups sugar
2 eggs
1/2 cup molasses

Cream the butter and sugar, then mix in the eggs and the molasses.

4 cups flour
4 teaspoons baking soda
2 teaspoon cinnamon
2 1/4 teaspoon ginger
2 teaspoons cloves
2 teaspoons vanilla
1/2 teaspoon salt

Blend all the dry ingredients together, then mix them into the egg mixture.

Chill dough. Roll into balls the size of large marbles and dip in sugar. Bake 375 degrees, 10-12 minutes.

These cookies are a Christmas favorite in our family.

Optional: You can substitute butter instead of shortening. They spread out more when cooking, but they stay soft and chewy.