Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.

In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, kosher salt, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground cloves. Whisk until fluffy.

In a large mixing bowl, beat unsalted butter and light brown sugar together until creamy. Add the unsulfured molasses and mix until fully incorporated.

Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating on low speed until combined. This adds moisture and binds the ingredients.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix until just combined.

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-55 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.

Allow the loaf to cool for about 20 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

For the frosting, melt butter over medium heat until it turns golden brown. Let cool, then beat with softened cream cheese until smooth.

Sift in powdered sugar, add vanilla, a pinch of salt, and milk to desired consistency. Spread frosting on cooled loaf.