Molasses and Ginger Stars

FOR THE DOUGH:
In a large mixing bowl beat butter or margarine with an electric mixer on medium to high speed for 30 seconds. Add the brown sugar, crystallized or ground ginger, and baking soda; beat till combined. Beat in molasses and milk. Beat in as much of the flour as you can with a mixer. Stir in any remaining flour with a wooden spoon. Divide dough in half. Cover and chill for 3 hours, or till easy to handle.

On a lightly floured surface, roll each half of dough to a 1/4-inch thickness. Using a 2-inch star cutter, cut dough into star shapes. Place cookies 1 inch apart on greased cookie sheets.

Bake in a preheated 375 degrees F oven for about 7 to 9 minutes, or till edges are firm. Remove cookies and cool on a rack.

FOR THE ICING:
In a medium mixing bowl stir together the powdered sugar and enough of the milk to make an icing of drizzling consistency. Drizzle icing over cookies. If desired, decorate with additional crystallized ginger.