Molasses Cookies (with our without pecans)

1 1/2 cups butter, softened
2 cups sugar
1/2 cup molasses
2 eggs
4 cups plain flour
3 tsp. baking soda
2 tsp. cinnamon
1 1/2 tsp. ground cloves
1 tsp. ginger
1/4 tsp. salt
1/2 to 3/4 cups chopped pecans (optional)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  In a large bowl, with a mixer combine butter, sugar, molasses and eggs.  In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, ginger and salt.  Gradually add to wet mixture.  Stir in pecans.  Grease cookie sheet or line with parchment paper.  Form dough into 1" sized balls.  Place balls 2" apart on cookie sheet and press lightly to flatten.  Bake 10-12 minutes.  Makes about 5 dozen.

Comments:  I found this recipe on Grandparents.com. and I did added the pecans.  These cookies were such a hit with my food testers!  They were gone in no time.  For changes, add some shredded coconut or maybe some raisins.  They are great with the pecans but just as good without.