Preheat the oven to 325°F. Line two baking trays with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. In another medium bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together the vegan butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the molasses and non-dairy milk, and beat until well-incorporated. Dissolve the baking soda in 1 tablespoon hot water, then add to the bowl and mix well.

Add half the dry ingredients and mix together on low speed until well-incorporated. Add the remaining flour mixture, then use a spatula to mix the batter until there’s no flour visible. Fold in the chocolate chips. The dough will be sticky, but not overly wet.

Using a measuring spoon or a small scoop, portion out generous tablespoon-sized balls of dough, roll between your hands to smooth them, and then roll the each ball of dough in the sugar. Place the sugar-coated cookies on the prepared baking sheets, leaving at least two inches between cookies, and flatten them slightly with your hands. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, until barely set and lightly cracked on the surface. These cookies firm up when they cool, so aim for a slightly undercooked texture. Allow to cool for a few minutes on the baking tray, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.