1. Whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and spices in a bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, cream butter and brown sugar until fluffy (about 2–3 mins).
3. Beat in the egg, then mix in molasses and vanilla.
4. Gradually stir in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
5. Divide dough into 2 discs, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 1 hour (or overnight).

🍬 To Bake:
6. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment.
7. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thick.
8. Cut into shapes with cookie cutters—gingerbread people, stars, snowflakes, hearts, you name it!
9. Place on baking sheets about 1 inch apart.
10. Bake 8–10 minutes, until edges are firm and centers look set.
(Shorter time = softer cookies. Longer = crispier.)
11. Let cool a few minutes on the tray, then transfer to a wire rack.

✨ Optional Royal Icing (for decorating):
12. Mix together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and almond extract.
13. Add a few drops of food coloring if you’re feelin’ festive!
14. Whisk until smooth and pipe away using a ziplock or piping bag.

🎄💡 Baking Tips:
Dough too sticky? Chill longer or dust with more flour when rolling.
Want chewier cookies? Sub 2 tbsp of butter for shortening.
Great for gifting—wrap stacks in twine or tuck into tins.