The brown sugar gives a molasses flavor to these spicy raisin nut cookies. Almost any type of nut is good; try toasted walnuts, pecans or almonds.

Brown Sugar Cookies

1 1/2 cups firmly packed brown sugar
2/3 cup vegetable shortening
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons milk
1 tablespoon grated orange peel
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup raisins
1/2 cup chopped nuts

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl cream together brown sugar and shortening until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs, milk and orange peel.
3. In a separate bowl stir together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Mix into the sugar mixture then stir in raisins and nuts.
4. Drop the dough by teaspoonfuls onto greased baking sheets.
5. Bake 10 to 12 minutes or until done. Remove from baking sheets and cool on wire rack.

Makes 36 cookies.