Sticky, sweet molasses gives these cookies their dark color and delicious flavor.
HEAT AND LINE: Adjust oven rack to middle position and heat oven to 375 degrees. Line baking sheet with parchment paper.
WHISK DRY: In medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt.
WHISK WET: In large bowl, whisk melted butter and brown sugar until smooth. Add molasses, egg yolk, and vanilla and whisk until well combined.
MIX: Add flour mixture and use rubber spatula to stir until no dry flour is visible and soft dough forms.
ROLL AND COAT: Place sugar in shallow dish. Use your hands to roll dough into 12 balls (about 1 heaping tablespoon each). Place dough balls in dish and roll to coat with sugar.