Method

1. Beat sugar, shortening, molasses. and water in a large bowl on low speed until blended. Beat on medium speed 1 minute.
2. Stir in remaining ingredients, except raisins. Cover and refrigerate until chilled, 1-2 hours.
3. Heat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Sprinkle a cloth-covered surface lightly with flour; turn dough onto surface.
4. Roll dough with a rolling pin until 1/4 inch thick. Cut with a 5 to 8 inch gingerbread kid cutter.
5. Lift cookies carefully with a large spatula onto an ungreased cookie sheet. Decorate cookies with raisins. Bake until set, 8-10 minutes.
6. Let cookies cool 3 minutes, then carefully remove from cookie sheet with a spatula.
7. Cool; decorate with frosting if you like.

Makes about eleven 5 inch or six 8 inch cookies. Great for holiday gift giving.