In a larger mixing bowl, cream shortening and sugar. Add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition. Mix in syrup. Add soda to buttermilk. Combine flour and spices. Mix in dry ingredients alternately with buttermilk to creamed mixture.

Bake in muffin tins at 350 degrees about 15 minutes or until a toothpick tests done. I use an ice cream scoop to measure batter. Serve hot. Very good served with Lemon Sauce below.

Batter will keep in refrigerator for several days.

OLD-FASHIONED LEMON SAUCE

1/2 cup butter

1 cup sugar

1/4 cup water

1 egg, well beaten

3 tablespoons lemon juice

zest of 1 lemon

Combine all ingredients. Cook over medium heat stirring constantly until boiling. Serve warm. May be refrigerated and reheated. Yields 1 1/3 cups.