Giant Ginger Cookies

Ingredients

• 4 1/2 cups flour
• 4 teaspoons ground ginger
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups shortening
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup molasses
• 3/4 cup coarse sugar (or sub granulated sugar)

Directions

1. 1

   In medium bowl stir together first 6 ingredients and set aside.

2. 2

   In large mixing bowl beat shortening on low speed for 30 seconds.

3. 3

   Add sugar and beat until combined.

4. 4

   Beat in eggs and molasses until combined.

5. 5

   Mix in reserved flour and spice mixture until combined.

6. 6

   Shape dough into 2 inch balls, (or you can measure with a #20 ice cream scoop).

7. 7

   Roll balls in the coarse sugar.

8. 8

   Place 2-1/2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheet.

9. 9

   Bake at 350°F for 12-14 minutes or until cookies are light brown and puffed -- do not overbake!

10. 10

    Cool on cookie sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer to wire rack to cool completely.