Gingerbread People^*

Creating gingerbread cookies can become a favorite family tradition. Prepare yourself for an afternoon of fun and mess as you and your helpers create masterpieces. Try decorating cookies to resemble each person in the family. And don't forget pets — everyone looks good in gingerbread!

Ingredients:

1/2 c. shortening 
1/2 c. sugar
1/2 c. molasses 
1/4 c. water
2 1/2 c. flour

3/4 tsp. salt 
1/2 tsp. baking soda 
3/4 tsp. ginger 
1/4 tsp. nutmeg 
1/8 tsp. allspice

Directions:

1. Cream shortening and sugar; add molasses and water.
2. Sift dry ingredients and gradually add to creamed mixture, blending well. Cover; chill 2 or 3 hours.
3. Heat over to 375°.
4. Roll dough 1/4” thick on lightly floured board; cut into desired shapes.
5. Bake on ungreased sheet 10-12 minutes. Remove immediately from baking sheet; cool on brown paper or rack. Frost and decorate as desired. Makes about 15 four-inch cookies. Store in tightly closed container.