Chewy Molasses Cookies

NEED: 1/3 cup shortening ( use a combination of Crisco and butter for best results) 1/2 cup sugar 2 eggs 1/2 cup molasses 2 tablespoons milk 1 1/4 cup all purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon allspice 1 cup currants or raisins 1/2 cup chopped nuts 2 teaspoons vanilla Blend shortening and sugar together until smooth. Add eggs, molasses and milk, mix well. Slowly, add remaining dry ingredients. Stir in fruit, nuts and vanilla. Mix well and chill for several hours or until firm. Place by teaspoons full on sprayed or greased cookie sheet. Place 2 inches apart. Oven at 350 degrees. Bake 15 minutes or until light brown. Cool on cookie sheet for 2 minutes then remove to wire rack to cool completely. Approx. 4 dozen cookies. Enjoy!