Step 1

Preheat oven to 325F and line a baking sheet with a silicone mat or parchment paper.

Step 2

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, combine granulated sugar and shortening. Mix to combine.

Step 3

Add molasses and egg, mixing well until light and fluffy.

Step 4

In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, baking soda, and salt.

Step 5

With the mixer on low speed, gradually add dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing only until combined and a soft dough forms.

Step 6

Scoop out dough by the Tablespoonful, rolling in your hands to form a ball. Roll each ball in the 1/4 cup of sugar to coat, then place on the prepared baking sheet (12 cookies at a time).

Step 7

Bake for 9-11 minutes, until edges are just starting to turn golden-brown. Remove from oven.

Step 8

Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to finish cooling.