Moravian Ginger Cookies II

These are lower in fat than most cookies, but still delicious! Try using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour, if you wish.

Ingredients

• 0.3333333333333333 cup molasses
• 0.25 cup shortening
• 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 0.25 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon baking soda
• 0.25 teaspoon baking powder
• 0.25 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 0.25 teaspoon ground ginger
• 0.25 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 pinch ground nutmeg
• 1 dash ground allspice
• 1 cup confectioners' sugar
• 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ tablespoons half-and-half cream

Steps

1. Mix molasses, shortening and brown sugar in a large bowl. Stir in flour, salt, baking soda, baking powder, and spices. Cover and refrigerate about 4 hours or until firm.
2. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
3. Roll half of the dough at a time to 1/8 inch thickness or paper-thin on a floured cloth-covered surface. Cut into 3 inch rounds with floured cutter.
4. Place about 1/2 inch apart on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake 1/8 inch thick cookies about 8 minutes; paper-thin cookies about 5 minutes or until light brown. Immediately remove from cookie sheet. Cool completely.
5. To Make Frosting: Mix 1 cup confectioners' sugar, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla, and 1-2 tablespoons half-and-half until of spreading consistency. Spread frosting on cooled cookies.