Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar until fluffy.
3. Add molasses, milk, and vanilla; mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, stirring until a soft dough forms.
5. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing evenly.
6. Bake 10–12 minutes until puffed and set. Cool on pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
7. For filling: Beat cream cheese or butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and any optional flavors; beat until fluffy.
8. Spread or pipe filling on the flat side of half the cookies. Top with remaining cookies.
9. Store in the fridge until serving.