Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, salt, and baking soda.
Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add egg and molasses: Mix in the egg and molasses until fully combined.
Combine dough: Gradually stir in the dry ingredients until a soft dough forms.
Shape cookies: Roll dough into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in granulated sugar.
Bake: Place on prepared tray and flatten gently. Bake for 8–10 minutes, until just set.
Cool: Let cool on the tray for 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.