Moravian Ginger Cookies II

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1/2 cup dark brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2-3 tablespoons water

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking sheet.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the molasses until combined.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, allspice, cloves, and salt. Stir into the butter mixture until combined.
4. Gradually stir in the flour until a soft dough forms. Roll the dough into 1-inch (2.5 cm) balls and place on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden.
5. In a small bowl, stir together the confectioners' sugar, vanilla, and enough water to make a spreadable icing. Spread the icing onto the cooled cookies.

Interesting Facts

• Moravian ginger cookies were originally created by the Moravian settlers in Pennsylvania in the mid-1700s.
• The cookies were traditionally made with lard instead of butter.
• The Moravian settlers were known for their gingerbread-like cookies, which were a popular treat for special occasions.