Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

In a large bowl combine brown sugar, ginger, shortening, pumpkin and egg. Beat with a mixer until well combined. Sift in and mix remaining ingredients to form a soft dough. Refrigerate dough for about 20 minutes until slightly firm. Roll into 1 inch balls, flatten slightly and place about 1 1/2 inches apart on a prepared cookie sheet. Bake for 8 to 12 minutes until lightly browned. Remove from oven and place on cooling rack.

To make the frosting - In a small saucepan heat the butter over medium heat stirring constantly. Cook until butter turns a nice golden brown. (watch carefully! mine took about 5 minutes) Remove from heat and mix in the powdered sugar and vanilla whisking to incorporate thoroughly adding the milk as needed to reach desired consistency. Once cookies are completely cooled spread with frosting.