Ginger Bread Cookies

My grandmother would make these cookies for the grand kids at out family christmas party. They are so chewy and delicious! What a great Christmas tradition! I love that you can use honey instead of molasses because who keeps molasses on hand nowadays?

Ginger Bread Cookies

1/3 soft shortening
1 C. brown sugar
1 1/2 C dark molasses or honey
2/3 C cold water
6-7 C sifted flour
2 tsp soda
1 tsp salt
1 tsp all spice
1 tsp ginger
1 tsp ground cloves
1 tsp cinnamon

Mix dough and chill overnight. Roll out 1/4 inch thick and use cookie cutter to cut out desired shapes. Place on greased cookie sheet and bake at 350 for 15 minutes. Makes about 2-3 dozen.