• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease baking sheets or line with parchment paper.

  In a large bowl, cream together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and shortening until smooth.

  Add the egg and molasses and mix until well combined.

  Stir in the flour, salt, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and baking soda. Mix until a soft dough forms.

  Roll dough out on a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.

  Place cookies on prepared baking sheets.

  Bake for 10–12 minutes, just until set. Do not overbake.

  Allow cookies to cool completely before decorating.

Notes

• These cookies should remain soft; remove them from the oven before they begin to brown.

  Dough can be chilled briefly if it becomes too soft while rolling.

  Cookies are best decorated once fully cooled.

  Store decorated cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.