Prepare the Dough

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Molasses, Egg, and Vanilla: Beat in the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract until fully combined.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain softness.
2. Chill Dough: Cover the dough and refrigerate for 30 minutes to help prevent spreading during baking.

Shape and Bake

1. Form Balls: Roll dough into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in granulated sugar to coat.
2. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place cookie balls 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
3. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are crackled.
4. Cool: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.