Creating Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies is straightforward if you follow these steps:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, baking soda, and salt.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add Molasses and Egg: Mix in the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until fully combined.
5. Chill the Dough: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
6. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
7. Form the Cookies: Scoop tablespoons of dough and roll them into balls. Roll each ball in powdered sugar to coat.
8. Place on Baking Sheets: Arrange the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.
9. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set, but the centers remain soft.
10. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

By following these steps, you’ll have a batch of Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies ready to enjoy!