1/2 c. butter, softened
1/2 c. sugar
1 egg
1 c. molasses
2 1/2 c. all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. ground cinnamon
1 tsp. ground cloves
1 tsp. ground ginger
1 c. hot water

Cream butter, gradually add sugar, mixing well. Add egg and molasses, mixing well. Combine dry ingredients, add to the creamed mixture alternately with the hot water, beginning and ending with flour mixture, and beating well after each addition. Pour batter into lightly greased and floured 9-inch square pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 35 to 40 minutes.