Molasses, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves give these easy-to-make spiced Christmas cookies their incredible flavor before they're rolled in sugar and baked to thick and chewy perfection.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. Set aside.
In the bowl of a stand mixer (or in a large bowl using an electric hand mixer), beat shortening, sugar, and molasses on medium speed until combined.
Add egg and beat on high speed until blended.
Slowly add flour mixture, blending just until incorporated.
Pour extra sugar onto a small plate. Roll dough into balls and roll each ball in sugar.
Chill the dough balls in the fridge for 30 minutes before baking.
Preheat the oven to 350°F and place cookie dough balls 3 inches apart on a cookie sheet lined with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper. Bake cookies for 8-10 minutes, until cookies spread and flatten. Edges should appear slightly crisped and centers should still be slightly puffed. Cool cookies on tray for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Cookies will firm up a bit and tops will crackle as they cool.
Notes
Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Cookies also freeze well, stored in an airtight container, for up to 3 months.