• 2 1/2 cups flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp ginger
• 2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp cloves
• 1/2 cup shortening
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 3/4 tsp soda
• 1 cup molasses
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup hot water

1. Heat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Sift the first 6 ingredients. Cream shortening, sugar, and soda. Add molasses. Stir in 1/2 cup flour mixture. Beat in eggs. Add hot water, alternating with the remaining flour. Beat 1/2 minute.
3. Pour into a well-greased, lightly floured 9 x 9 x 2 inch pan. Bake 45 minutes or until done.

When Aunt Lahoma was making Gingerbread, the wonderful aroma would bring us into the house. We couldn't wait to get a warm piece of gingerbread topped with either fresh whipping cream or warm applesauce. The kitchen always had this wonderful smell that had our mouths watering when she was baking gingerbread. Aunt Lahoma served this with warm applesauce poured over the top. Others who have used her recipe have served with whipping cream.