In a saucepan combine butter, brown sugar, and corn syrup. Cook and stir over medium heat until butter is melted and sugar is dissolved. Pour into a large mixing bowl and cool 5 minutes. Meanwhile, combine flour, cinnamon, ginger, soda, and cloves. Add egg and vanilla to butter mixture and mix well. Add the flour mixture and beat until well mixed. Divide the dough in half. Cover and chill at least 2 hours or overnight.
To make each bear shape dough into one 3 cm ball, one 2 cm ball, six 1 cm balls, and five 1 cm balls. On an ungreased cookie sheet flatten the 3 cm ball to 1 cm thickness for body. Attach the 2 cm ball for head and flatten to 1 cm. Attach the 1 cm balls for arms, legs, and ears. Arrange remaining 1 cm balls atop ends of arms and legs for paws. Use chocolate pieces for eyes and navel.
Bake in a 350 degree oven for 8 to 10 minutes or until done. Carefully remove and cool. If desired, pipe on bow ties with icing.
Makes 16.