In a large mixing bowl, cream together sugar and shortening. Add in egg and molasses. Mix until well-combined.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and spices until well-blended. Add flour mixture to mixing bowl, beating until well-combined.
Roll dough into 1-inch balls and roll the balls in granulated sugar. Place them 2 inches apart onto ungreased baking sheets.
Bake at 350 degrees for 8-10 minutes. Cool on wire racks.
Caramel Buttercream
In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and caramel sauce til blended. Add enough powdered sugar that the frosting is thick and fluffy, but spreadable. Beat until fluffy.
Make cookie sandwiches by spreading the bottom of one ginger cookie with buttercream, and topping it with another cookie.