Old-fashioned chewy molasses oatmeal cookies with the taste of gingerbread.

Chewy Molasses Oatmeal Crackles

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup quick oats
2 teaspoons baking soda
2 teaspoons ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1 cup brown sugar, firmly packed
1/3 cup butter, melted
1/4 cup applesauce
1/4 cup molasses
1 large egg, lightly beaten
Granulated sugar

1. In medium bowl, combine flour, oats, baking soda, spices and salt; mix well.
2. In large bowl, combine brown sugar, butter, applesauce, molasses and egg; mix until well blended. Add flour mixture and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour.
3. Heat oven to 375°F (175°C). Lightly grease cookie sheets.
4. Shape dough into 1-inch balls; roll in granulated sugar. Place 2 inches apart on cookie sheets.
5. Bake 7 to 9 minutes or until tops have crackled. Let cool 2 minutes on cookie sheets; remove to wire rack. Cool completely. Store tightly covered.

Makes about 3 1/2 dozen.