Bobbi's Frosted Molasses Cookies

1 cup butter, softened
1 cup packed brown sugar
2 eggs
1 cup dark molasses
1 tsp. vanilla extract
4-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 Tbsp. ground ginger
1 Tbsp. ground cinnamon
2 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. ground allspice
1 cup buttermilk

Frosting:
1/4 cup shortening
1/4 cup butter, softened
1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
2 cups confectioners' sugar
1/4 tsp. ground ginger
4 tsp. milk

Colored sprinkles, optional

In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar. Beat in eggs, molasses and vanilla. Combine the flour, ginger, cinnamon, baking soda, salt and allspice; add to creamed mixture alternately with the buttermilk.

Drop by tablespoonfuls 2 inches apart on to greased baking sheets. Bake at 375 for 7-9 minutes or until set. Remove to wire racks to cool.

For frosting, in a small mixing bowl, cream shortening and butter. Beat in vanilla. Gradually beat in confectioners' sugar and ginger. Add milk, beat until light and fluffy. Spread over cookies. Decorate with sprinkles if desired. Store in an airtight container.