Step 1

Preheat oven to 400°F and line cookie  sheets with parchment paper.

Step 2

In a large bowl cream butter and sugar. Beat in molasses and egg.

Step 3

In a separate bowl whisk the flour, spices, and salt.

Step 4

Combine the hot water and baking soda in a little cup. Pour into the butter mixture and stir to combine.

Step 5

Add the dry ingredients and stir until incorporated.

Step 6

Using a medium cookie scoop or a tablespoon, make the middle of the paws and then use a teaspoon measure to make four toes. This will be a little messy but will get easier once you have done a few.

Step 7

Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes. Let cookies cool for a few minutes before transferring to a rack to cool completely.