Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves until well combined.

In another bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Mix in the molasses and egg yolk until smooth.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Lightly flour your workspace and roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Cut out shapes using cookie cutters and place them on the baking sheets.

Bake for 8-10 minutes until the edges are firm but the centers remain soft. Cool on wire racks before decorating.