Preheat oven to 350°F (170°C). Line baking trays with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, stir together the flour, baking soda, spices and salt and set aside. In a large mixing bowl, beat butter, brown sugar, egg, molasses and vanilla with an electric mixer on medium speed until combined. Gradually add the flour mixture and beat on low speed until combined.*
Shape tablespoons of cookie dough into golf ball sized balls, roll dough balls in the granulated sugar and place two inches apart on prepared baking trays. Bake cookies for 10-12 minutes or until puffed and the outside edges are browned and firm to the touch. Allow cookies to set on the baking tray for five minutes then cool completely on wire racks.