Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
In a large bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes. Add the egg, molasses, and vanilla, and mix until smooth.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, ginger, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until a soft dough forms.
Scoop the dough into tablespoon-sized balls and roll each one in granulated sugar.
Arrange the cookies about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 9–10 minutes, until the edges are set and the tops are crackled.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Bake just until the edges are set for soft, chewy cookies.
Chill the dough for 30 minutes if you'd like thicker cookies.
Add a pinch of cloves or nutmeg for extra warmth.
Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized cookies.
Flatten the dough slightly for crispier cookies or leave it rounded for a softer texture.