Gather the ingredients. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

Beat 2 cups sugar, shortening, and molasses in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment until uniform, making sure not to overbeat. Add eggs; beat for 30 seconds.

Whisk flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and salt together in a separate bowl; beat into sugar mixture until just combined and dough is stiff.

Pour 2 tablespoons sugar in a shallow bowl. Roll dough into 1-inch balls; roll in sugar, making sure not to flatten. Place on ungreased cookie sheets.

Bake in the preheated oven until cookies crackle on top for "lace" design, 6 to 8 minutes. Cool on cookie sheets for 5 minutes; transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.