5 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1 cup vegetable shortening
1 cup sugar
1 large egg
1 cup dark molasses
2 tablespoons cider vinegar
Royal Icing

Assorted candies for decoration

   1. In medium bowl combine first 6 ingredients, mixing well. Set aside.
   2. In large bowl cream shortening and sugar with electric mixer until light  and fluffy. Add egg, molasses and vinegar; beating until smooth. Stir in flour mixture until just mixed.
   3. Roll dough out on a lightly floured parchment paper to 1/8-inch thickness.
   4. Lay pattern pieces for house on dough and cut around them. Remove scraps and gently slide parchment paper with pieces of house onto baking sheet.
   5. Bake in a 375*F (190*C) oven for about 12 to 15 minutes. Let cool on baking sheet 3 or 4 minutes before removing to wire rack to cool completely.

Royal Icing

3 egg whites, at room temperature (see Food Safety)
1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
1 (16-ounce) package powdered sugar (4 cups)

Assorted food coloring

   1. Beat egg whites and cream of tartar in a large mixing bowl at medium speed of an electric mixer until foamy; gradually add sugar, mixing well. Beat 5 to 7 minutes.
   2. Tint with desired food colors.

Note: Icing dries very quickly; keep covered at all times with plastic wrap.