Cookie Cutters

Soft Molasses Cutout Cookies

1 cup shortening
1/2 cup sugar

1/2 cup packed brown sugar

2 eggs

1 cup dark molasses

5-1/2 cups all-purpose flour

3 teaspoons baking soda

1 teasopoon ground ginger

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

3/4 teaspoon slat

1/2 cup water

In a large bowl, cream shortenig and sugars until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in molasses. Combine the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, and salt; add to the creamed mixture alternately with water, beating well after each addition. Cover and refrigerate for 3 hours or until easy to handle.

On a lightly floured surface, roll out to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut with 2-1/2 inch cookie cutters dipped in flour. Place 1 inch apart on greased baking sheets.

Bake at 350 for 8-10 minutes or until edges are firm. Remove to wire racks to cook. Frost or dust with confectioners sugar if desired.

So fun! You might have made just ginger cookies before, but have you ever made a gingerbread man? This is the perfect recipe to do so. Or you can uses any other Christmas cookie cutter like angels, trees, snowmen, or stars!