2 1/2 c. sifted all-purpose flour
2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. cloves
1/2 tsp. allspice
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 tsp. ginger
3/4 c. butter, softened
1 c. sugar
1 egg
1/4 c. molasses
Powdered sugar

Sift flour with baking soda and spices. Beat butter, sugar and egg until light and fluffy. With wooden spoon beat in flour mixture alternately with molasses; beat well after each addition. Refrigerate dough, covered, 1 hour.

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Lightly grease cookie sheets. Drop dough by the teaspoonful 1" apart. Bake 8 to 10 minutes. Remove to rack; sprinkle with powdered sugar while warm. Makes 5 to 6 dozen.