Christmas Jewels

1/3 cup shortening

1/4 cup sugar

1/2 cup molasses

1 egg

1/2 cup flour (sifted)

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon mace

1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon ginger

1 pound mixed candied fruit

2 cups nuts (coarsely chopped)

Mix shortening, sugar, molasses, and egg. Mix dry ingredients together in separate bowl. Blend dry ingredients into shortening mixture. Stir in fruit and nuts. Drop rounded teaspoons about 1 inch apart on a greased cookie sheet.

Bake at 325 F for 12 to 15 minutes. Cool on sheet for several minutes, than transfer to wire rack.