Moravian Christmas Cookies

• 1 cup dark molasses
• 1 1/3 cups brown sugar, firmly packed
• 1/2 cup lard or 1/2 cup 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

1. Combine molasses, sugar, lard and soda dissolved in 2 tablespoons hot water over low heat. Melt and cool.
2. Add orange extract. Gradually add flour sifted with spices.
3. Dough should be firm.
4. Mix and knead thoroughly.
5. Cover well and set in cool place to ripen.
6. Roll small amounts of dough to 1/16" - 1/8" thick on a well floured board.
7. Cut into shapes with floured cutters. Use old-fashioned cookie cutters for added interest.
8. Place on greased tins, smoothing out any air bubbles.
9. Bake at 350u0b0 for 12 minutes or until light brown--watch carefully.

dark molasses, brown sugar, lard, baking soda, orange extract, flour, cinnamon, mace, water, ginger, clove

Taken from www.food.com/recipe/moravian-christmas-cookies-3912 (may not work)