Santa's Spicy Gingerbread Cookies

• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup molasses
• 1 egg yoke 2
• cups sifted flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon cloves
• 1 teaspoon ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1. In large bowl cream together butter and sugar until smooth.
2. Stir in molasses and egg yoke.
3. In a small bowl combine flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, ginger and nutmeg; blend into the molasses mixture until smooth.
4. Cover and chill for at least 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
6. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to 1/4 inch thickness.
7. Cut into desired shapes.
8. Place cookies 2 inches apart on parchment lined baking sheets.
9. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until firm.
10. Remove cookies and cool on wire racks.
11. Frost or decorate when completely cooled.

Michele's Little This and Thats