01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease an 8-inch square baking pan and line with parchment paper.
02 - In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt until evenly mixed.
03 - In a large bowl, whisk melted butter, light brown sugar, and molasses until smooth. Incorporate eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Stir in milk and vanilla extract until just blended.
04 - Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
05 - Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
06 - Bake for 28 to 32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
07 - Let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Lift out using parchment and cool completely.
08 - Dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.