For the very best flavor, allow these cookies to ripen a day or two at room temperature. The flavors blend together and the taste is much better.

INGREDIENTS | YIELDS 48 COOKIES

• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup sugar
• ¼ cup vegetable shortening
• ¼ cup unsulfured molasses
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• ¼ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon cloves
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup raisins
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• ¼ cup candied ginger, chopped

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking pan with parchment paper.

2. Cream together butter, sugar, and shortening until creamy.

3. Add molasses and egg; blend well.

4. Sift together dry ingredients. Stir into butter mixture.

5. Blend in raisins, pecans, and candied ginger.

6. Drop by teaspoons onto prepared sheets.

7. Bake 8–10 minutes. Cool completely.