Using a stand mixer or hand mixer with paddle attachment, mix together molasses, brown sugar, shortening, and egg.
In a separate bowl, sift or whisk together dry ingredients. Gradually add to the shortening mixture and mix on low speed until combined.
Chill dough for at least 1-2 hours.
Preheat oven to 375° F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Shape dough into one-or two-inch balls, roll in granulated sugar, and place on baking sheet 2-3 inches apart (the larger they are the more they will spread).
Sprinkle with water and bake for 6-9 minutes, or until cookies just begin to brown and are still doughy in the middle (do not overbake as they will continue to bake once out of the oven).
Let cool until set on baking sheet and then finish cooling on wire racks.