Cream the butter, shortening, brown sugar, and ½ cup granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl with a hand-held mixer.

Mix in the molasses, and then add the eggs and mix to combine.

In a separate large bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and spices. Add dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until thoroughly incorporated. Transfer the dough to the refrigerator and chill for one hour.

While the dough is chilling, place the top oven rack in the center position and pre-heat the oven to 375°F. Line two large rimmed baking sheets with parchment paper or a Silpat® baking mat and set aside.

Remove dough from refrigerator and form into 1-inch balls. Roll balls of dough in the remaining ½ cup granulated sugar until coated.

Place balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving 2 inches between each ball. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 8 - 11 minutes or until cookies are nicely browned and cooked through.

Remove cookies from the oven and cool on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy!