Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Optionally, roll the balls in granulated sugar for a sugary coating.
Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each.
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
