Three-Flavor Molasses Ginger Spice Loaves

Ingredients

• 1 cup molasses
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 2 1/2 tablespoons shortening
• 3 1/2 cups flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 cup cold water
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon ginger
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon cloves
• fruit, coconut, or chopped nuts (optional)

Method

1. 1 Combine molasses, sugar, shortening, flour, baking powder, water, baking soda, egg, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves in a mixing bowl. Beat until thoroughly mixed.
2. 2 Divide the batter into three parts. Stir fruit into one part, and coconut or chopped nuts into the second part. Leave the third part plain.
3. 3 Pour each portion into well-greased and floured loaf-shaped pans.
4. 4 Bake in a slow oven (300°F) for 40 minutes.