Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, or using an electric mixer, cream the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar.
Add the molasses and vanilla and mix again.
In a medium bowl, combine the flour, cinnamon, baking soda, ginger, cardamom, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing after each addition. Mix in the water.
Use a 2-inch cookie scoop to scoop the dough and roll it into balls.
Roll the cookie dough balls in cane sugar and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet.
Press down slightly on the tops of the balls and bake for 10 minutes.
Remove and let cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
