Step 1

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silpat mats.

Step 2

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. In a shallow bowl, place 1/2 cup sugar; set aside.

Step 3

In a separate large bowl, use an electric mixer to combine the butter and the remaining 1 cup of sugar until combined. Beat in the egg and then the molasses until combined. Reduce the speed to low; gradually mix in the dry ingredients, just until a dough forms.

Step 4

Use 1 tablespoon of dough to roll into balls. Roll the balls in the reserved sugar to coat.

Step 5

Arrange the balls on the prepared baking sheets, about 3 inches apart. Bake, one sheet at a time, until the edges are just firm, 10 to 15 minutes. Cool 1 minute on baking sheets and then transfer to racks to cool completely. Store in an airtight container, 3 to 4 days.