Chewy Molasses Spice Cookies

I got this recipe from a coworker after she brought it to an office party. These are like soft, chewy gingersnaps -- all the flavor without the "snap." The recipe can easily be halved, and heaping teaspoons of the spices enhance the flavor.

• Ready In: 1 hr 38 mins
• Yields: 40 cookies

Ingredients

• 1  teaspoon ground cloves
• 1  teaspoon ground ginger
• 2  teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1  teaspoon salt
• 4  teaspoons baking soda
• 4  cups flour
• 1 1⁄2 cups sugar
• 1 1⁄2 cups butter, room temperature
• 1⁄2 cup molasses
• 2  eggs
• 1⁄2 cup sugar, if desired

Directions

1. Mix the first six (dry) ingredients together.
2. Beat the butter and sugar together.
3. Add the molasses and eggs to the butter and sugar.
4. Mix the wet and dry ingredients until combined, but do not overmix!
5. Chill the dough to make rolling the balls easier.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F.
7. Roll the dough into balls about the size of a golf ball.
8. Roll in the extra 1/2 cup of sugar, if desired.
9. Bake on ungreased cookie sheet for 8 minutes. Do not overcook!
10. Prep time includes chill time.