Moravian Christmas Cookies

Ingredients

• 1 cup dark molasses
• 1 1/3 cups brown sugar, firmly packed
• 1/2 cup lard or shortening
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 tablespoon orange extract
• 4-5 cups flour
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon mace
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1/2 teaspoon ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon clove

Directions

1. 1

   Combine molasses, sugar, lard and soda dissolved in 2 tablespoons hot water over low heat. Melt and cool.

2. 2

   Add orange extract. Gradually add flour sifted with spices.

3. 3

   Dough should be firm.

4. 4

   Mix and knead thoroughly.

5. 5

   Cover well and set in cool place to ripen.

6. 6

   Roll small amounts of dough to 1/16" - 1/8" thick on a well floured board.

7. 7

   Cut into shapes with floured cutters. Use old-fashioned cookie cutters for added interest.

8. 8

   Place on greased tins, smoothing out any air bubbles.

9. 9

   Bake at 350° for 12 minutes or until light brown--watch carefully.