Creating Classic Christmas Gingerbread can be a joyful experience when you follow these step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
5. Incorporate Dry Mixture: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until a smooth dough forms.
6. Chill the Dough: Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to make it easier to handle.
7. Roll Out Dough: Once chilled, roll out the dough on a floured surface to about ¼ inch thick.
8. Cut Shapes: Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes as desired. Transfer them to the prepared baking sheets.
9. Bake: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly browned.
10. Cool: Remove from the oven and allow the gingerbread to cool on the sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
11. Decorate: Once completely cool, feel free to decorate the gingerbread with icing, candies, or sprinkles for a festive touch!

These steps will help you create delicious Classic Christmas Gingerbread that embodies the spirit of the holiday season.