Save A festive and charming gingerbread house, perfect for the holidays. This recipe yields sturdy, delicious gingerbread panels and includes ideas for creative decorating with royal icing and candies.
This festive project has always brought my family together, filling our home with warmth and sweet aromas every holiday season.
Ingredients
- Gingerbread Dough: 350 g all-purpose flour, 1 tsp baking soda, 2 tsp ground ginger, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/2 tsp ground cloves, 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg, 1/2 tsp salt, 125 g unsalted butter softened, 100 g brown sugar, 1 large egg, 120 g molasses or dark treacle, 2 tbsp honey
- Royal Icing: 2 large egg whites, 400 g powdered sugar sifted, 1/2 tsp cream of tartar, Food coloring optional
- Decorations: Assorted candies gumdrops candy canes chocolate buttons licorice sprinkles, Shredded coconut or powdered sugar for snow effect, Edible silver pearls optional
Instructions
- Prepare the Gingerbread Dough:
- In a bowl whisk together flour baking soda spices and salt. In a large bowl cream butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg molasses and honey. Gradually add dry ingredients mixing until combined. Divide dough in half flatten into disks wrap and chill for at least 1 hour.
- Roll and Bake the Gingerbread Panels:
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Roll dough on parchment to 5 mm thickness. Cut out house shapes using templates walls roof door chimney. Transfer to lined baking sheets. Bake 12-15 minutes until firm and golden. Cool completely.
- Prepare Royal Icing:
- Beat egg whites until foamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and cream of tartar beat until stiff peaks form. Divide and tint with food coloring if desired keep covered with a damp cloth.
- Assemble the House:
- Pipe thick lines of icing along the edges of the walls assemble on a sturdy base. Hold panels in place for a few minutes until set allow to dry 30 minutes before adding roof. Attach roof panels with icing and support until set.
- Decorate:
- Use royal icing to attach candies create icicles and add snowy effects. Sprinkle with coconut or powdered sugar for snow. Let dry completely before moving.
Save Gathering around to decorate the gingerbread house has become a cherished family tradition we look forward to each year.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, Electric mixer, Rolling pin, Baking sheets, Parchment paper, Sharp knife or templates, Piping bags and small nozzles, Sturdy baseboard or cake board
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten) eggs and dairy (butter). Some candies may contain nuts or soy always check labels.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories 330, Total Fat 7 g, Carbohydrates 67 g, Protein 3 g
Save With these tips you’re ready to create a beautiful gingerbread house that will enchant your holidays.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I ensure gingerbread panels are sturdy?
Bake panels until golden and firm, then allow them to cool completely. Baking a day ahead improves stability for assembly.
- → What is the best way to pipe royal icing?
Beat egg whites with powdered sugar and cream of tartar until stiff peaks form. Use piping bags with small nozzles for precision.
- → Can I add color to the icing?
Yes, adding food coloring allows you to customize the icing for creative decorations like icicles and outlining.
- → What candies work best for decorating?
Assorted candies like gumdrops, candy canes, chocolate buttons, licorice, and sprinkles add vibrant charm and texture.
- → How do I create a snowy effect on the house?
Sprinkle shredded coconut or powdered sugar over the decorations to mimic fresh snow and add festive appeal.