GINGERBREAD SCONE MIX

To make the mix:

Combine the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, ginger, cinnamon, salt, baking soda, cloves and nutmeg. Using a pastry blender - or your fingers - I used my hands after a couple of swipes with the blender (I think you could do it in the food processor - but not really necessary)

Cut in the shortening until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

For each gift, spoon 1 3/4 cups of the mix into a plastic bag or jar. Seal and store up to 6 weeks at room temperature (up to 6 mos. in freezer).

Include instructions with the gift/mix.

Scone Directions:

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

1 3/4 cups scone mix

1 egg, beaten

2 Tbs. milk

1 Tbs. molasses

More milk and sugar for garnish, if desired

Pour the scone mix into a medium size bowl and make a "well" in the center of mixture.

Beat egg - in a small bowl - or measuring cup - add molasses and milk and combine with beaten egg. Pour liquid into the "well" of the dry mixture and combine well until well moistened. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently 10 times or until the dough is smooth. Form a 6 to 8 in. circle (depending on how thick you want your scones) and cut into 8 wedges. (they are generous) Place wedges 1 in. apart on an ungreased baking sheet. Brush w/ additional milk and sprinkle with sugar if desired. (I did this and it adds a nice touch)

Bake 10 to 12 minutes or until bottoms are brown. Serve warm.