BEST Soft Gingerbread Cookies

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 teaspoons ground ginger

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 3/4 cup butter, softened

• 1 cup white sugar

• 1 egg

• 1 tablespoon water

• 1/4 cup molasses

• 4 tablespoons white sugar