Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use cooking spray.

Melt the shortening in a small saucepan or in the microwave and let cool. Add the sugar, molasses, and egg and mix until incorporated.

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, add the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt. Add this to the wet mixture and mix until it forms a dough and is incorporated.

Scoop into one inch balls and roll in sugar and place 2 inches apart. Bake for 8-10 minutes. Let cool on a wire rack and dip in white chocolate if desired.