Gingerbread - cooking recipe

Ingredients

2 1/4 c. flour
1 1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. ginger
1/2 tsp. allspice
1/8 tsp. cloves
1/3 c. shortening
2/3 c. hot water
1 c. molasses

Preparation

Sift together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, allspice and cloves.
Melt shortening in hot water.
Add molasses and stir.
Pour liquid mixture into flour mixture and beat well. Pour into an 8-inch square greased pan.
Bake at 350\u00b0 for 35 to 40 minutes or until top of gingerbread is light brown and springs back to the touch.
Serve warm and top with whipped cream, if desired.