M - Molasses-Spice Cookies

The boys plow right through these cookies at my house. I've included a picture of mine at the bottom, but click on the Southern Living link to see them in all their glory.

Molasses-Spice Cookies

Ingredients:

3/4 C shortening
1 C granulated sugar
1 large egg
1/4 C molasses
2 C all-purpose flour
1 t. baking powder
1 t. baking soda
1/4 t. salt
1 t. ground ginger
1 t. cinnamon
1/2 t. ground nutmeg
1/4 t. ground cloves
1/4 t. ground allspice (which I leave out or just add a small pinch of pepper)
1 C sparkling sugar

Beat the shortening at med speed with mixer until fluffy. Gradually add 1 C granulated sugar, beating well. Add egg and molasses; beat well.

Combine flour and next 8 ingredients, stirring well. Add 1/4 of the flour mixture at a time to shortening mixture, beating at low speed after each addition until blended. Cover and chill 1 hour.

Shape dough into 1-in balls, and roll in sparkling sugar. Place 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 375 degrees for 9-11 minutes. (Tops will crack.) Remove to wire racks to cool completely.

Serving: 3 dozen
Recipe Given By: Southern Living

Look for sparkling sugar in the Wilton aisle of your local craft store!