Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line cookie sheets with parchment paper.

Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.

Cream butter & sugar: In a large bowl, beat melted butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).

Add wet ingredients: Beat in egg, molasses, and vanilla until smooth.

Combine: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.

Shape cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll into balls, and coat in granulated sugar.

Bake time: Place on parchment-lined sheet pan about 2 inches apart. Bake 8–10 minutes, until edges are set and golden brown but centers look slightly soft.

Cool: Let cookies rest on the sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.