In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, baking soda, ground nutmeg, and salt.

In another bowl, beat softened unsalted butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

Add molasses, egg, and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing until smooth.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a cohesive dough forms.

Divide the dough in half, wrap tightly, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Roll out one half of the chilled dough to ¼ inch thick and use cookie cutters to cut shapes.

Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes until edges are firm.

Cool on a wire rack before decorating.

Once cool, decorate with icing and candies as desired.