Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Set the temperature: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Prepare the baking pan: Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

• Combine dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves.

Step 3: Cream the Wet Ingredients

• Beat butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
• Add molasses, egg, and vanilla: Mix in the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

• Gradually mix: Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
• Fold in nuts and raisins (optional): Stir in chopped walnuts and raisins for extra texture and flavor.

Step 5: Bake the Bars

• Spread the batter: Evenly spread the batter into the prepared baking pan.
• Bake until set: Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Slice

• Let cool in the pan: Allow the bars to cool for at least 15 minutes.
• Cut into squares: Slice into bars and serve warm or at room temperature.