Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Lightly grease an 8x-8-inch baking pan with non-stick cooking spray to ensure easy removal of the cake after baking.

In a small bowl, combine water and molasses.  Stir thoroughly until the molasses is fully dissolved.  Set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves and salt.  Ensure the spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed for a consistent flavor and texture.

Using the back of a spoon, create 3 wells in the dry ingredients (2 small wells and 1 large well).  Add the vanilla to one of the small wells, vinegar to the other small well and oil to the large well.

Pour the molasses-water mixture over the dry ingredients.  Mix gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until the batter is smooth and all ingredients are fully incorporated.  Avoid overmixing, as this could affect the cake’s texture.

Pour batter into prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.  Place the pan on the middle rack in oven and bake for about 30 minutes or until toothpick inserted in the center of the cake comes out clean. 

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan.

Serve plain or with whipped cream, frosting, a drizzle of caramel or lemon glaze.