Instructions: Mix flour, soda, spices and salt. Beat shortening, molasses, sugar, water, egg and vanilla until well blended. Gradually beat in flour mixture. Will be soft. Divide into fourths. Pat each 1/4 into 1" thick round. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate at least 3 hours or up to 1 week.

Roll on lightly floured surface to 1/8" thick, cut with ginermen cutters and bake at 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes. Cool slightly on cookie sheet, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely. Decorate with Royal Icing (see seperate recipe).

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