Grandma Brown's Gingerbread

Step 1: Grease well either a 9x13-inch baking pan or two 9-inch round or square pans, then cut a piece of waxed or parchment paper to fit the bottom of the pan and press it down; preheat oven to 350F.

Step 2: Cream shortening and sugar together; in a separate bowl combine dry ingredients.

Step 3: Add molasses and boiling water to the shortening mixture; stir until shortening dissolves.

Step 4: Gradually add dry mixture to liquid, stirring well between each addition.

Step 5: Beat eggs well; add into mixture last.

Step 6: Pour batter into prepared pan(s) and bake at 350F for 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean (it can take as long as 35 minutes, depending on your oven).

Step 7: Let cool in pan(s) 10 minutes; then invert onto a plate. Remove waxed paper from the bottom and invert again onto a cooling rack.

Step 8: Best when served warm with real whipped cream, but delicious any time.