In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt.

In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

Add the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4-inch thickness.

Use cookie cutters to stamp out festive shapes.

Place the cut-out cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are firm.

Let cookies cool on a wire rack.

For the icing, mix powdered sugar with a tablespoon of water until smooth.

Add food coloring if desired and decorate the cooled cookies with icing.