Molasses Crinkles

My neighbour Carol was raised by an Old Order Mennonite aunt, but as an adult she joined a more modern Mennonite fellowship. She lived on our street but never really left the farm with its busy kitchen and foods meant for hard-working folks. She showed me several Pennsylvania Dutch recipes, not in writing, but demonstrated with a handful of this and a pinch of that.
Carol had a heart attack while making muffins for a church function and passed away very suddenly. The neighbourhood was in shock, as we were all recipients of her kindness and cooking. Our dog still pulls to go up her driveway when we go for a walk as he remembers the treats he always received from her. This is her recipe, and I love to make it at Christmas time. It is good with applesauce at any time of year.

Cream together
3/4 cup butter or shortening
1 cup brown sugar
4 tablespoons molasses
1 egg

Add
2 teaspoons baking soda
2-1/2 cups flour
1 teaspoon each cinnamon and ginger

Pinch off a piece of dough the size of a walnut, roll in a ball and dip in sugar. Flatten with a fork. Put a drop of water on top of the dough
Bake for 10 minutes at 375F.