Pepparkakor

In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, molasses, shortening and butter. Bring to a boil; reduce heat. Cook and stir over low 2 minutes. Remove from heat; let cool 45 minutes.

Add egg, cinnamon, orange zest, allspice, nutmeg, salt, baking soda, cardamom and cloves to saucepan, stirring well to mix. Add flour; mix well.

Divide dough in half. Wrap and chill until dough is easy to handle, at least 2 hours.

Preheat oven to 375°. On a floured surface, roll out dough to 1/8 inch thick. Using 3-inch cutters, cut out dough. Place cutouts 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheets. Top with almonds and cherries. Bake until set, about 7 minutes. Remove; cool on wire racks.