Ginger Cookies

Directions

1. 1
   Combine first 6 ingredients in a bowl and whisk to blend.
2. 2
   Mix in crystallized ginger.
3. 3
   Using an electric mixer, beat brown sugar, shortening and butter until blended.
4. 4
   Cover and refrigerate one hour.
5. 5
   Preheat oven to 350F Lightly butter 2 baking sheets.
6. 6
   Put extra sugar in a thick layer on small plate.
7. 7
   Using wet hands, form dough into medium-sized balls (1 1/4 -inch balls, but really who measures!
8. 8
   ).
9. 9
   Roll in sugar to coat completely.
10. 10
    Bake cookies untl cracked on top but still soft to touch, about 10-12 minutes.
11. 11
    Do NOT overbake.
12. 12
    Cool and hide from children if you don't want them all consumed in the first 24 hours!