Molasses Sugar Cookies

You know those cookbooks you get as gifts as a child; the easy-to-follow cookbooks made especially for kids? Well that's where this next recipe came from. I don't remember if it was from my cookbook or my sister's, but this cookie recipe has been a family favorite for years. I remember making and eating them as a kid and they still manage to show up at most family get-togethers today. In our house, our youngest daughter frequently makes them, and let me tell you she's a whiz at it — they always turn out soft and chewy.

3/4 c shortening

1 c sugar (plus 1/2 c set aside)

1 egg

1/4 c molasses

2 c flour

1/2 tsp salt

1 tsp baking soda

1 tsp cinnamon

1/2 tsp cloves

1/2 tsp ginger

Beat 1 c sugar, the molasses and egg into shortening. Sift together dry ingredients and add to the molasses mixture, mixing well. Form into 1 inch balls, roll in 1/2 c sugar that was set aside, and place on greased cookie sheet 2 inches apart. Bake at 375 degrees for 10 minutes.