Frosted Molasses Cookies

Frosted Molasses Cookies

1 cup butter, softened
1 cup packed brown sugar
2 eggs
1 cup dark molasses
1 tsp vanilla extract
4 1/2 cups flour
1 tbsp ground ginger
1 tbsp ground cinnamon
2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
1/4 tsp ground allspice
1 cup buttermilk

Frosting:
1/4 cup shortening
1/4 cup butter, softened
1/2 tsp vanilla
2 cups confectioners sugar
1/4 tsp ground ginger
4 tsp milk
Colored sprinkles, optional

In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar. Beat in the eggs, molasses, and vanilla. Combine the flour, ginger, cinnamon, baking soda, salt, and allspice. Add to the creamed mixture alternately with the butermilk. Drop by tablespoonfuls 2 inches apart onto greased baking sheets. Bake at 375 F. for 7 to 9 minutes or until set. Remove to wire racks to cool. For the frosting, in a small mixing bowl, cream the shortening and butter. Beat in the vanilla. Gradually beat in the confectioners sugar and the ginger. Add the milk. Beat until light and fluffy. Spread over the cookies. Decorate with the sprinkles, if desired. Makes 7 1/2 dozen cookies