Instructions

1. 1
   In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar with an electric hand mixer until light and fluffy.
2. 2
   Add eggs and molasses. Cream with hand mixer until well combined.
3. 3
   Add flour, ginger, cinnamon, baking soda, salt, and cloves. Mix with a spatula until just combined.
4. 4
   Cover and let chill in the refrigerator until dough is less sticky and easier to handle, about 4 to 8 hours.
5. 5
   Roll out into 1/4 inch thick sheet on a lightly floured surface.
6. 6
   Dip cookie cutter in flour and cut out desired shape. Place cut shapes onto parchment paper on baking sheets leave 1 inch space between cookies.
7. 7
   Bake at 350°F until cookies just start to brown on the tops and edges, about 10 to 11 minutes.
8. 8
   Remove from oven and let cool completely before decorating with icing.