Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, salt, cloves, and ginger.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the sugar and softened butter on medium-high speed until smooth and creamy, about 1-2 minutes.
Add Wet Ingredients: Scrape down the bowl, then beat in the egg, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Combine Ingredients: On low speed, gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms. Avoid overmixing; the dough should be soft and sticky but scoopable.
Scoop and Bake: Using a #40 cookie scoop or by hand, portion the dough into balls of approximately 1 1/2 tablespoons. Place on the prepared baking sheet, spacing evenly. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are firm and the centers puff slightly. Do not overbake.
Cool and Frost: Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Decorate with Cinnamon Buttercream or frosting of choice, if desired.