Edison Home Gingerbread Cookies recipe

Source: the Thomas Edison homestead, Greenfield Village in Michigan

Makes approximately 100 cookies.

2 cups molasses
1 cup butter or lard
2 teaspoons ginger
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 cup sour milk
6-8 cups all-purpose flour

In a large saucepan, combine molasses, butter or lard, and ginger. Heat on stove until butter or lard melts. Pour into mixing bowl and add baking soda and milk. Add enough flour so dough is stiff but workable. Roll out portions of dough on floured surface, cut into shapes, and bake at 350 degrees F about 10 minutes, checking to make sure they don't burn. Dough may be refrigerated overnight, but bring to a room temperature before rolling out.

If these cookies are to be used as Christmas ornaments, use a straw to poke a hole in the top of the cookies before baking.