1/2 c. sugar
1 1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 c. butter
1 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. ginger
1 tsp. cloves
1/2 tsp. salt
1 c. molasses
1 egg
1 c. hot water
2 1/2 c. sifted flour

Cream butter and sugar; add beaten egg and molasses. Add dry ingredients, sifted before. Add hot water and beat until smooth. Bake 35 to 40 minutes at 350 degrees. Serve plain, with whipped topping or lemon sauce.