Soft ginger cookies

2 ¼ cups flour
 ¾ cup butter or shortening

2 tsp ground ginger
 1 cup sugar

1 tsp baking soda
 1 egg

¾ tsp cinnamon
 ¼ cup molasses

½ tsp ground cloves
2 Tbsp sugar

¼ tsp salt (opt)

Combine flour, ginger, soda, cinnamon, cloves, and salt; set aside. In a large mixing bowl, beat butter or shortening on low speed for 30 seconds to soften. Add sugar; beat until fluffy. Add egg and molasses; beat well. Stir dry ingredients into beaten mixture. Shape into balls. Roll in sugar and place on an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake at 350 for 10 minutes or until light brown and still puffed. Do not overcook! Let stand for 2 minutes before transferring to rack. Makes 3 dozen.