Directions
In a large bowl, beat butter, brown sugar and molasses until fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add egg and vanilla and beat until combined. Next, in a medium bowl, whisk flour, spices, baking soda and salt until combined. Gradually add dry ingredients to butter mixture until the dough comes together. Be sure not to over mix.

Divide dough in half and create two discs. Roll each piece of dough between two pieces of parchment to 1/4-inch thick. Chill until firm, from 3 hours to overnight, based on your preference.

Preheat oven to 350°. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. Peel off both sheets of parchment from dough, then replace one sheet of parchment back underneath dough. Cut out gingerbread men with a 3-inch wide cutter and transfer to baking sheets.

Bake for 4 minutes, then flip cookies and bake for another 4 minutes, until slightly puffed and set. Let cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Repeat with remaining disc of dough. Decorate with icing and sprinkles as desired. CS