We have our Gingerbread Tree up in the store... In keeping with the theme:
Enjoy this Simple Gingerbread Cookie Recipe
*please share a yummy festive recipe here too!
Ingredients
6 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 tablespoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon ground cloves
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 cup shortening, melted and cooled slightly
1 cup molasses
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup water
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
Sift together the flour, baking powder, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and cinnamon; set aside.
∗ In a medium bowl, mix together the shortening, molasses, brown sugar, water, egg, and vanilla until smooth.
∗ Gradually stir in the dry ingredients, until they are completely absorbed.
∗ Divide dough into 3 pieces, pat down to 1 1/2 inch thickness, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 3 hours.
∗ Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
∗ On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to 1/4 inch thickness.
∗ Cut into desired shapes with cookie cutters.
∗ Place cookies 1 inch apart onto an ungreased cookie sheet.
∗ Bake for 10 to 12 minutes in the preheated oven.
When the cookies are done, they will look dry, but still be soft to the touch.
∗ Remove from the baking sheet to cool on wire racks.
When cool, the cookies can be frosted with the icing of your choice.