Gingerbread Cookies

Step 1: In a large bowl, sift or whisk together the flour, salt, baking soda, and spices. Set aside.

Step 2: With a hand mixer cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add the egg and molasses and beat until well combined.

Step 4: Gradually add the flour mixture beating until incorporated.

Step 5: Divide the dough in half, and wrap each half in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least two hours or overnight.

Step 6: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F and place rack in center of oven.

Step 7: Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.

Step 8: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.

Step 9: Use a floured cookie cutter to cut out the cookies.

Step 10: With an offset spatula lift the cut out cookies onto the baking sheet, placing the cookies about 1 inch apart.

Step 11: Bake for about 8 - 12 minutes or till they are firm and the edges are just beginning to brown.

Step 12: Remove the cookies from the oven and cool on the baking sheet for about 1 minutes. When they are firm enough to move, transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.