8 tbsp. (4 oz.) butter, softened
1/2 c. packed light brown sugar
1/2 c. light molasses
1 lg. egg, lightly beaten
2 c. all-purpose flour
2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. ground cloves
1 tsp. powdered ginger
1 tsp. allspice
1/4 c. water

Heat the oven to 375 degrees. Lightly buttered 2 baking sheets. Combine the butter, brown sugar, molasses and egg in a large bowl and beat until smooth. Sift together the flour, baking soda, salt and spices. Sift the dry ingredients into the batter, a third at a time, alternating with the water.

Drop the batter onto the baking sheets by tablespoonfuls, about 2 inches apart. Bake at 375 for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly browned and the top springs back when gently pressed. Cool the cookies on wire racks.