2 1/4 c. flour
2 tsp. ground ginger
1 tsp. baking soda
3/4 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp. ground cloves
1/4 c. molasses
1/4 tsp. salt (optional)
3/4 c. butter or shortening
1 c. sugar
1 egg
2 tbsp. sugar

Combine flour, ginger, soda, cinnamon, cloves, and salt; set aside. In large bowl, beat butter with an electric mixer on low speed for 30 seconds to soften. Gradually add the 1 cup of sugar; beat until fluffy. Add egg and molasses; beat well. Stir dry ingredients into beaten mixture. Shape into 1 1/2 inch balls (1 heaping tablespoon dough each). Roll in the 2 tablespoons sugar and place on ungreased cookie sheet, 2 1/2 inches apart. Bake in a 350 degree oven for 10 minutes or until light brown and still puffed (do not overcook). Let stand 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Cool. Makes 24 (3 inch) cookies.