Mix shortening and sugar well. Stir in molasses nad water. Stir dry ingredients together separately, then vlend into shortening mixture.
Chill dough for several hours or overnight. Heat oven to 375 degrees. Roll dough 1/4" thick on floured board or sprinkle Saran wrap with flour. Cut into 3" circles. Sprinkle with sugar. Place on well-greased baking sheet.
Bake 10-12 minutes. Leave on baking sheet for a few minutes before removing to prevent breaking. Store in covered jar.