Kafy's Giant Ginger Cookies

4 1/2 cups all purpose flour

4 teaspoons ground ginger

2 teaspoons baking soda

1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon ground cloves

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 1/2 cups shortening

2 cups sugar

2 eggs

1/2 cup molasses (I used Brer Rabbit mild flavored)

3/4 cups coarse sugar or decorating sugar

In a medium bowl, stir flour, ginger, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.  Set aside.  In a large mixing bowl, beat shortening until softened.  Gradually add the 2 cups sugar and beat until fluffy.  Add the eggs and molasses and beat well.  Add half of the flour mixture; beat until combined.  Stir in remaining flour mixture.  Roll dough into small bowls and roll in sugar.  Place on ungreased cookie sheet about 2 inches apart.  Bake at 350f for 8 to 10 minutes or until cookies are light brown and puffed.  Do not overbake or cookies will not be chewy.  Let stand for 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.  Cool.  Makes about 4 dozen cookies when making small coolies.  The recipe suggested making the dough with shortening and not margarine or butter for a chewy texture.  Enjoy!!!