Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

• Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease the pan: Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or a round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

• Cream butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
• Add eggs and molasses: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the molasses until smooth.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

• Mix the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

• Alternate additions: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
• Add vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

• Pour the batter: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
• Bake: Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Serve

• Add toppings: Dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar or serve with whipped cream.
• Slice and serve: Cut into squares or slices and enjoy.