In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, salt. Whisk to combine. 

Using an electric stand or hand mixer, beat together the butter and sugar on medium speed for 2 minutes until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs, one at a time then slowly add in the molasses. 

Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. 

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for 30min-1hr. 

After dough is chilled, preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.  

While the oven is preheating, prepare a baking sheet by covering the base with a piece of parchment paper. 

Roll the bough into small balls, about 1 inch diameter. Roll each ball in sugar until they are completely coated. 

Place on the prepared cookie sheet, at least 2 inches apart. 

Bake for 8-10 minutes until the cookies begin to slightly crack on the top. They will continue to crack while cooling. 

Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before moving the to a wire rack to cool.