In a medium-large bowl, mix together the flour, baking soda, ginger, nutmeg, cloves and cinnamon.

In a separate bowl, beat the butter until completely smooth (about a minute or two). Add brown sugar, molasses, egg and vanilla, and mix well until smooth.

Divide dough into two pieces, wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours.

Preheat oven to 350 F degrees, and line 2 large baking sheets with parchment paper. Set aside.

On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out until ¼ inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut the dough into shapes. Place them onto the baking sheet.

Bake for 8 to 12 minutes.

Let cookie to cool for 5 to 10 minutes before transferring to cooling rack.

Once cooled, decorate with icing of your choice