Making gingerbread cookies is easy with these clear steps:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Add Egg and Molasses: Mix in the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
4. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
5. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour.
6. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the dough chills.
7. Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to a thickness of about ¼ inch.
8. Cut Cookies: Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on parchment-lined baking sheets.
9. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are firm.
10. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
11. Decorate: Once cooled, you can decorate with royal icing or fondant as desired.

Following these steps will ensure that you create beautiful and delicious gingerbread cookies effortlessly!