1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter
1 1/2 c. sugar
1/4 c. dark molasses
1 egg
2 c. sifted flour
2 tsp. baking soda
1 1/2 tsp. cinnamon
3/4 tsp. ground ginger
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. ground cloves

In medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Let cool to room temperature. Stir 1 cup sugar, the molasses and the egg into the butter. Sift together the dry ingredients and add to the butter mixture. Cover and chill for 45 minutes or until the dough is stiff. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.

Shape the dough into balls 1 inch in diameter. Roll each ball in the remaining 1/2 cup sugar and place on a cookie sheet 2 inches apart. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes in the middle of the oven, until tops are cracked. Let cool on racks.