Spicy Sugar Cookies

 

3 1/2 cups flour

1 1/2 teaspoon ginger

1 2/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon cloves, ground

1/4 teaspoon cardamom, ground

1/2 cup butter

3/4 cup sugar

1 egg

1/4 cup molasses

2 teaspoon grated orange rind

Cinnamon heart candies (optional)

 

Sift or whisk together flour, ginger, cinnamon, soda, cloves and cardamom

 

In separate bowl, cream butter, then gradually add the sugar, creaming well. Blend in egg, molasses, and orange rind.

 

Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the butter mixture, blending well.

 

Cover; chill overnight.

 

Divide dough into 3 equal pieces. Roll out one piece at a time on a well floured surface until it is about 1/8-inch thick.

 

Use a heart shaped cookie cutter to cut out cookies, then place them on a greased cookie sheet. Place a cinnamon candy in the center of each cookie, if desired.

 

Bake at 375 degrees for 8 to 10 minutes.

 

Yield: 7-8 dozen cookies (depending on size of hearts).