Gingerbread Men

These cookies have excellent flavor and texture, and will keep for a long time. I like to make them at Christmastime—after decorating I wrap each gingerbread man (and woman) in plastic and tie a ribbon at the top--they make wonderful decorations for the tree and are still good to eat when the season is over.

• 2-3/4 CUPS FLOUR
  
• 1/2 TSP BAKING SODA
• 1 TSP GINGER
• 1/2 TSP CINNAMON
• 1/2 TSP SALT
• 1/2 CUP SHORTENING
• 1/4 CUP BROWN SUGAR
• 3/4 CUP LIGHT MOLASSES
• 1 EGG, BEATEN
• 1/2 TSP LEMON RIND
• 1 TSP HOT WATER
• 1 TSP VINEGAR

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Sift together dry ingredients. Cream together butter, sugar, egg and molasses
and beat until smooth. Mix in flour, and then lemon rind, water and vinegar. Cover and chill ‘til firm.

Roll out dough 1/4” thick and cut into shapes with cookie cutter. Place on greased and floured cookie sheets and bake in preheated 350 degree oven for 20 minutes.

Decorate when cool. If icing is used, be sure to let dry thoroughly before wrapping.