SOFT PUMPKIN COOKIES from the Kitchen of Elaine Pelton

1 cup sugar                                          1/2 cup shortening ( or butter if you prefer)

1 cup canned pumpkin                            2 cups flour

1 tbsp grated orange peel                       1/4 tsp salt

1 tsp baking powder                                1/2 cup raisins

1 tsp baking soda                                     1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

1 tsp cinnamon

Mix sugar, pumpkin, shortening & orange peel.  Stir in flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt & cinnamon.  Mix in raisins & walnuts.  Drop by rounded teaspoonsful about 2 inches apart onto ungreased cookie sheet.  Bake at 375 degrees for 8 - 10 minutes or until light brown.

Frost with your favorite frosting, & enjoy.  This recipe is supposed to make 4 dozen cookies but that will depend on how big your spoonfil is.