Beat together:

1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup softened butter

Add 1 egg

Add 1 cup molasses

Sift together and add 2 1/2 cups flour with 1 1/2 tsp. soda

Add:

1 tsp. ground ginger
1/2 tsp. ground cloves
1/2 tsp. salt

Blend in 1 cup hot water

Pour into three quick release greased gingerbread person molds.  You will have a little batter left for about 4 cupcakes.

Bake at 325 for about 40 minutes.