Step 1 Stir together the flour, cinnamon, cloves, black pepper, baking soda and sugar in a large mixing bowl. Add the fresh ginger.
Step 2 Using an electric mixer on low speed, mix in the oil, molasses and eggs. Beat until the batter is smooth. Add the boiling water, continuing to mix slowly until it's incorporated.
Step 3Pour the batter evenly into a prepared 13-by-9-inch baking pan. Bake at 375 degrees until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, about 40 to 45 minutes. Cool.
Step 4Serve dusted with powdered sugar and garnished with thinly sliced candied ginger as well as whipped cream, if desired.