Step 1

Preheat oven to 350° F (175° C).

Step 2

In a medium-sized bowl and combine flour, ginger, cloves, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and black pepper together and set aside.

Step 3

In large bowl, beat together 1 cup sugar and butter for 4-6 minutes until soft and light.

Step 4

Add egg to butter and sugar mixture and beat for 30-40 seconds.

Step 5

Add molasses, mix well.

Step 6

Now sift dry ingredients into the wet mixture stirring gradually. Mix until well incorporated into a dough. Be careful not to over-mix. Refrigerate dough for one hour, or until solid enough to roll.

Step 7

Make small size balls and roll them in remaining 2 tablespoons sugar. Place them on an ungreased cookie sheet at a considerable distance as they spread, and then flatten them with your fingers or a flat spatula.

Step 8

Bake in batches in preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, until done. Transfer to a cooling rack. Serve when cool.