Mix thoroughly:

• 3/4 cup butter
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup molasses

Mix together in separate bowl:

• 2 1/4 cups flour
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Blend dry mix into wet mix with hands. Dough will be thick. Cover and chill for 1 hour.

Dough can be rolled out to 1/4 inch thick and cut into desired shapes or rolled into balls by the teaspoon and dipped in granulated sugar. If using ball method, place 3 inches apart on cookie sheet.

Bake at 375 degrees for 8-12 minutes, depending on desired softness. Promptly remove from baking sheet to cooling rack.

If using shape method, cool and decorate with frosting.