Save A festive and fun kit featuring homemade gingerbread panels, royal icing, and a variety of candies for constructing and decorating a classic gingerbread house.
This kit always brings holiday cheer and delight to our gatherings. The kids especially love decorating their own houses with candy.
Ingredients
- Gingerbread Panels: 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour, 3/4 cup (150 g) brown sugar, 1/2 cup (120 g) unsalted butter softened, 2/3 cup (225 g) molasses, 1 large egg, 1 tsp baking soda, 1 tbsp ground ginger, 2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/2 tsp ground cloves, 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg, 1/2 tsp salt
- Royal Icing: 2 large egg whites (or 4 tbsp pasteurized egg whites), 3 1/2 cups (420 g) powdered sugar sifted, 1/2 tsp lemon juice
- Decorations: 1 cup assorted candies (gumdrops, mini pretzels, chocolate buttons, sprinkles, candy canes, etc.), 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional for snow effect), 1/4 cup mini marshmallows (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- In a large bowl, cream butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add molasses and egg' mix until combined.
- Step 3:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. Gradually add to wet mixture, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
- Step 4:
- Divide dough in half. Roll each half between parchment sheets to 1/4-inch (6 mm) thickness.
- Step 5:
- Using printable or cardboard templates, cut dough into panels for house: 2 walls (4x6), 2 roof pieces (5x7), 2 side walls (4x5).
- Step 6:
- Transfer panels to prepared baking sheets. Bake 12-15 minutes, or until edges are firm. Cool completely on a wire rack.
- Step 7:
- For royal icing: In a large bowl, beat egg whites until foamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and lemon juice, beating until thick and glossy. Transfer to a piping bag fitted with a small round tip.
- Step 8:
- Assemble the house: Pipe icing along the edges of panels and join to form the house structure. Hold pieces together for a few minutes until icing sets allow to dry for 30 minutes.
- Step 9:
- Decorate: Use remaining icing to pipe details and attach candies, coconut, and marshmallows as desired. Let the house dry until icing is firm before displaying or serving.
Save Our family always bonds over decorating the gingerbread house together each holiday season it's a memorable tradition.
Required Tools
Electric mixer, mixing bowls, rolling pin, parchment paper, baking sheets, sharp knife or cookie cutters, piping bag and tips, wire rack
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), eggs, and dairy (butter). Some candies may contain nuts, soy, or gluten—always check ingredient labels.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (estimate based on 8 servings): Calories 430, Total Fat 8 g, Carbohydrates 89 g, Protein 5 g
Save This gingerbread house kit makes decorating both fun and easy so you can create beautiful holiday memories.
Recipe FAQs
- → What ingredients are used for the gingerbread panels?
The panels are made from flour, brown sugar, butter, molasses, egg, and a blend of spices like ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and baking soda for leavening.
- → How is the royal icing prepared?
Royal icing is created by whipping egg whites with powdered sugar and a splash of lemon juice until thick and glossy, perfect for assembling and decorating.
- → Can the gingerbread panels be baked in advance?
Yes, the gingerbread panels can be baked up to one week ahead and kept fresh in an airtight container until ready to assemble.
- → Are there options to customize the decorations?
Absolutely, you can personalize the house with your choice of candies, shredded coconut for snow effect, mini marshmallows, or edible glitter.
- → What tools are recommended for assembly and decorating?
Essential tools include an electric mixer for the icing, mixing bowls, rolling pin, piping bag with tips, parchment paper, baking sheets, and a wire rack for cooling.
- → Is this suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the ingredients used are vegetarian friendly, though some candies may contain allergens, so always check labels if needed.