Molasses Cookies

Submitted by Betty Blystone

From Chef Betty: While serving on the Falls Church City Council, my mom, Betty Blystone, was instrumental in finding and approving the legislative solution that allowed Aurora House to remain in the City of Falls Church.

When someone asked what she would do if the “girl’s home” (as it was known then) moved in next to her home, mom answered “I would bake them some cookies. ” In fact, Aurora House is less than a 5 minute walk from her home. Instructions

Ingredients

1 ¼ cup shortening

2 cups granulated sugar

½ cup molasses

2 eggs

4 teaspoons baking soda

4 cups sifted flour

1 teaspoon cloves

1 teaspoon ginger

2 teaspoons cinnamon

1 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Melt shortening over low heat.

2. Remove and cool slightly.

3. Add molasses, sugar, eggs and beat well.

4. Add sifted dry ingredients, mix well.

5. Chill.

6. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

7. Form chilled dough into 1 inch balls.

8. Roll in granulated sugar (colored with food coloring if desired) and place 12 to a sheet on a greased cookie sheet.

9. Bake 8-10 minutes.

10. These cookies can be lightly frosted and freeze well.