MUSTARD HOT BREAD

1/2 cup shortening
1/2 cup sugar
1 egg, well beaten
2 1/2 cups flour
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1 teaspoon dry mustard
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup hot water
1 cup molasses

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Well-grease a 9x9-inch square cake pan.

Cream the shortening and sugar till smooth. Add the egg and beat till well blended; set aside.

Sift together the flour, spices, mustard, baking soda, and salt; set aside.

Combine the hot water and molasses and add to the creamed mixture alternately with the flour mixture. Pour into the prepared cake pan.

Bake in a 350 degree F oven for about 35 minutes.

Serve while it is still warm in thick buttered slices. Your guests will protest about putting on pounds but they'll all take three or four pieces.

Source: Muffins and Quick Breads with Schmecks Appeal by Edna Staebler