preheat the oven to 325℉ degrees

Line baking sheets with parchment paper

In a medium bowl, mix together the dry ingredients: flour, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, baking soda and salt

Using a stand mixer, combine the butter and brown sugar until creamy. Add the egg and mix thoroughly. Add the molasses. scrape the sides of the bowl to make sure combined.

Add dry ingredients in thirds. make sure to use a low setting so the ingredients fly about.

Put 1/4 cup sugar in a small bowl. Scoop out 1" balls of dough and roll in the sugar. Place on parchment paper lined baking sheets.

Press down the balls to flat circles. The dough will expand so place 2 inches apart.

Bake 12-14 minutes or until the edges are brown.

cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes and then move to a wire rack to cool completely