Molasses Cutouts

2/3 cup shortening
1-1/4 cups sugar
2 eggs
2 tablespoons buttermilk
2 tablespoons molasses
3-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
Confectioners' sugar icing
Miniature chocolate chips
M&M's

In a mixing bowl, cream shortening and sugar. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Beat in buttermilk and molasses. Combine dry ingredients; gradually add to the creamed mixture and mix well. Chill for several hours.

On a lightly floured surface, roll dough to 1/8-in. thickness. Cut with 5-in. cookie cutters dipped in flour. Place 2 in. apart on greased baking sheets.

Bake at 375° for 8-10 minutes or until edges just begin to brown. Remove to wire racks to cool. Decorate as desired. Makes about 2 dozen.