MORAVIAN CHRISTMAS COOKIES

MORAVIAN CHRISTMAS COOKIES

1 cup dark molasses
1/2 cup plus 2 Tbsp. lard or
shortening
1 1/2 tsp. soda
1 Tbsp. orange extract
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. mace
1 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
2 Tbsp. hot water
1/2 tsp. ginger
1/2 tsp. cloves
4 to 5 cup flour

Combine molasses, sugar, lard and soda dissolved in 2
tablespoons hot water over low heat. Melt and cool. Add
orange extract. Gradually add flour sifted with spices. Dough
should be firm. Mix and knead thoroughly. Cover well and set
in cool place to ripen. Roll small amounts of dough to paper
thinness on well floured board. Cut into shapes with floured
cutters. Place on greased tins, smoothing out any air bubbles.
Bake at 350 degrees until light brown. Watch carefully. Store in
airtight container.
The dough can be rolled to tissue paper thin. Use
old-fashion type cookie cutters for added interest.

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