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

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and optional cloves.

In another bowl, cream softened butter with brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.

Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with apple cider, until a soft dough forms.

Roll out dough on a floured surface to ¼-inch thickness. Cut with cookie cutters and place on baking sheets.

Bake 12–15 minutes until lightly golden. Cool completely on wire racks.

For royal icing, whisk powdered sugar, meringue powder, and water until smooth. Add food coloring as desired.

Decorate cooled cookies with icing and sprinkles. Let icing set completely before serving.