In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, molasses, vanilla extract, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. Mix until smooth.

Add the egg and stir until fully combined.

Incorporate baking soda and flour to form a soft, slightly sticky dough.

Chill the dough wrapped in plastic wrap for at least 30 minutes.

Preheat oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Roll out the chilled dough to ¼-inch thickness, cut shapes, and space them on baking sheets.

Bake for 7-8 minutes until lightly browned and slightly underbaked.

Cool on sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Mix powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk for frosting consistency.

Decorate cooled cookies with frosting and candies or sprinkles.