Giant Ginger Cookies

I love ginger cookies, but no one else in my family enjoys them. :(  So when I can find someone to share them with me I will make a batch of these.  Any takers?

4 1/2 cups Flour
4 tsp ground Ginger
2 tsp Baking soda
1 1/2 tsp ground Cinnamon
1 tsp ground Cloves
1 1/2 cups Shortening
2 cups Sugar
2 Eggs
1/2 cup Molasses
3/4 cup coarse Sugar

Note: For chewy texture, use shortening, not butter or margarine.

In medium mixing bowl, stir together flour, soda, spices, and salt.  Set aside.  In large mixing bowl, beat shortening until softened.  Gradually add 2 cups sugar, beat until fluffy.  Add eggs and molasses; beat well.  Add half of flour mixture; beat until combined.  Stir in remaining flour with wooden spoon. 

Using a 1/4 cup ice cream scoop, shape dough into 2 inch balls.  Roll in coarse sugar.  Place on ungreased cookie sheet about 2 1/2 inches apart.

Bake at 350 for 12 to 14 minutes or until cookies are light brown and puffed.  Do not over bake or cookies will not be chewy.  Let stand 2 minutes before transferring to wire rack.  Cool.