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

Combine flour, ginger, soda, cinnamon, cloves and salt; set aside.

In a large mixing bowl beat butter with an electric mixer on low speed for 30 seconds to soften. Gradually add the 1 cup 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 an ungreased cookie sheet about 2 1/2 inches apart. Bake in a 350 degree oven about 10 minutes or until light brown and still puffed. Do not overbake. Let stand for 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Cool. Makes 24 three inch cookies.