Step 1: In a large bowl, sift all dry ingredients; set aside.

Step 2: In an electric mixer fitted with paddle attachment, cream butter and sugar at medium speed until fluffy. Add eggs and molasses. Add flour mixture. Mix at low speed until combined. Mixture will be quite sticky. Divide in two parts and flatten. Wrap in plastic wrap and place in freezer for 30 minutes.

Step 3: Heat oven to 350F. Roll dough between two pieces of plastic wrap to 1/8" thick. Cut into desired shapes. Place cookies on nonstick baking pan or parchment lined baking sheets. If dough is very soft, chill until firm. Bake 8 minutes. These darken quickly so keep an eye on them. Allow to cool on baking sheets 5 minutes. Remove to wire rack to cool. Decorate as desired.