1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This will help prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup easier.

2. Prepare the Cookie Dough

Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps to incorporate air, which makes the cookies light and fluffy.

Add Molasses and Egg: Beat in the molasses and egg until fully combined. The mixture should be smooth and slightly glossy. Molasses not only adds flavor but also helps keep the cookies moist.

Mix Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, and spices. This ensures that the leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed, which is essential for consistent flavor and texture.

Combine: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender. The dough should be thick and slightly sticky.

3. Prepare the Coating

Mix Sugar and Cinnamon: In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. This will be used to coat the cookies, adding an extra layer of sweetness and flavor.

4. Form the Cookies

Scoop the Dough: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, take a portion of dough and roll it into a ball. This helps ensure that all your cookies are uniform in size.

Coat in Cinnamon Sugar: Roll each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated, then place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This will allow room for spreading as they bake.

5. Bake the Cookies

Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers look slightly soft. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking.

Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. This helps them maintain their shape and texture.