Gather the ingredients. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Set 2 tablespoons sugar in a small bowl; set aside.
Sift flour, ginger, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, and salt into a bowl.
Beat butter and remaining 1 cup sugar in a separate large bowl with an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Beat in egg, then stir in molasses and water. Gradually stir the sifted ingredients into the mixture until well combined.
Use floured hands to shape dough into 24 walnut-sized balls. Roll each ball in the reserved sugar until coated.
Place cookies 2 inches apart onto un-greased cookie sheets, and flatten slightly with the bottom of a glass.
Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, switching racks halfway through.
Remove from the oven and allow cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
