3 cups sifted all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp. baking soda
2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
3/4 tsp. ginger
1/3 cup butter or lard
1/3 cup firmly packed brown sugar
2/3 cup light or dark molasses
1 egg

Sift the flour with the soda, baking powder, salt and ginger. Cream the fat, cream in the sugar, beat in the molasses and egg. Add the sifted dry ingredients and combine well. Chill slightly if the dough seems too soft.

Roll out on a lightly floured board and cut into shapes with a floured cutter or sharp knife. The thickness of the dough will depend on the size of the cutters. If using a large cutter, have the dough at least 1/3 inch or, better, 1/2 inch thick. Large gingerbread men should be lifted from the board with a wide spatula.

Place cookies on greased baking sheets, allowing room for expansion. Bake in a 375-degree oven, 8-15 minutes, depending on the thickness. Remove to a rack to cool while still warm. Decorate with frosting and candies if desired.

–Chef Mick Rosacci, Tony’s Meats & Specialty Foods