Ginger Bread Men

I generally like quick and easy, which makes this recipe an anomaly.  It’s easy enough, but not all that quick.  I have skipped the refrigerator stage, with the help of a lot of flour sprinkled on the counter and rolling pin, but letting it get good and cold is better.  You can use whatever cookie cutter you want, of course.  In other words you could make something besides men, but why bother? 😀

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1 c. shortening
1 c. sugar
2 eggs
1 c. molasses
2 T. vinegar
5 c. flour
1 1/2 t. baking soda
2 t. ginger
1 t. cinnamon
1 t. cloves

Mix first 5 ingredients and next 5 separately, then combine.  Chill dough for a minimum of 3 hours.  Roll out to 1/8″ thick.  cut with cookie cutters.  Bake at 375 degrees for 5-6 minutes.  Makes 60 small or a dozen huge men.