Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup butter flavored shortening
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup molasses
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1 Orange
  • 1/4 teaspoon orange extract
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons grand marnier
  • 2 1/4 cups flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper plus more for sprinkling
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 3/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • white sugar

Method

  • Using an electric mixer, beat the shortening, zest and sugar until fluffy, approximately 3-5 minutes. Add the molasses followed by the egg, vanilla, orange extract and Grand Marnier and combine well.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk the remaining dry ingredients (except the white sugar) together, then slowly pour into the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined. Cover and chill for at least 2 hours or overnight.
  • When ready to bake, shape dough into 1 tablespoon balls, roll in white sugar and set on baking sheet. Sprinkle with extra black pepper. Bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees for 8-10 minutes.