Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
4. Add Eggs and Molasses: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, add the molasses and vanilla extract and mix until fully combined.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Add Hot Water: Pour in the hot water and stir until the batter is smooth and well-incorporated—it will be slightly thin, but that’s okay!

Bake the Cake

1. Pour Batter Into Pan: Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
2. Bake: Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it towards the end to avoid overbaking.
3. Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Chocolate Glaze

1. Heat the Cream: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer.
2. Add Chocolate: Remove from heat and stir in the chopped chocolate until it melts completely.
3. Finish the Glaze: Stir in the butter until the glaze is smooth and shiny. Let it cool slightly before drizzling over the cake.

Assemble and Serve

1. Glaze the Cake: Once the cake has cooled completely, drizzle the chocolate glaze over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides.
2. Serve: Slice the cake and serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for later enjoyment.