Soft & Chewy Gingerbread Men Cookies

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tablespoon ground ginger

• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed

• 1 large egg

• 1/2 cup unsulfured molasses

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Decorating sugar or icing (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, salt, and baking soda. Set aside.

2. In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

3. Add the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

4. Gradually stir in the flour mixture until a dough forms. If too sticky, refrigerate for 30 minutes.

5. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

6. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick and cut out gingerbread men shapes.

7. Place on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until edges are firm.

8. Allow to cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

9. Decorate with icing or sprinkle with sugar if desired.