In a large bowl, using a hand mixer, beat softened butter, brown sugar and molasses until fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add egg and vanilla and beat until combined.
In a medium bowl, whisk flour, spices, baking soda and salt until combined. With the mixer on low, gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients until dough just comes together. (Do not overmix).
Divide dough in half create two discs. Wrap each in plastic wrap and chill until firm, about 2 hours.
Preheat oven to 350(F) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or spray baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray.
Place one disc of dough on lightly floured surface and roll until 1/4 thick.
Dip the cookie cutters with flour and cut out shapes. Transfer to baking sheets.
Bake until slightly puffed and set 9-10 minutes. Let cook on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Repeat with remaining disk of dough.
Decorate the cookies if desired.