Christmas Gingerbread House Recipe
This recipe will guide you through baking, assembling, and decorating your own gingerbread house, perfect for the holiday season. It includes a sturdy gingerbread dough, royal icing for “glue,” and decorating ideas.
Ingredients
For the Gingerbread Dough:
• 6 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon ground ginger
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup dark brown sugar
• 1½ cups molasses
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup water
For the Royal Icing (Glue):
• 3 large egg whites
• 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 4 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
For Decoration:
• Assorted candies (gumdrops, candy canes, peppermints, etc.)
• Sprinkles
• Edible glitter
• Pretzels (for fences)
• Mini marshmallows (for snow)
Instructions
1. Make the Gingerbread Dough
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and spices.
2. In a separate bowl, cream butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the molasses, eggs, and water, and mix well.
3. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients until a stiff dough forms.
4. Divide the dough into two portions, flatten each into a disk, and wrap in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
2. Roll and Bake
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness.
3. Using a gingerbread house template (download or create your own), cut out walls, roof panels, and other desired shapes.
4. Transfer pieces to prepared baking sheets and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until firm. Let cool completely on wire racks.
3. Make the Royal Icing
1. In a large bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until foamy.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar and continue beating until the icing is thick and holds stiff peaks.
3. Transfer to a piping bag with a small round tip.
4. Assemble the Gingerbread House
1. Lay out all the gingerbread pieces. Use the royal icing as “glue” to join the edges of the walls. Hold each piece in place for a few minutes to set.
2. Once the walls are secure, attach the roof panels, holding them until set. Let the structure dry completely (1–2 hours) before decorating.
5. Decorate
1. Use royal icing to attach candies and decorations to your house. Be creative—make icicles, snow-covered roofs, or candy fences.
2. Dust with powdered sugar for a snowy effect and add edible glitter for sparkle.
Tips
• Templates: Use cardstock or cardboard for templates to ensure precise cuts.
• Sturdiness: For extra strength, let the gingerbread pieces dry overnight before assembling.
• Storage: Store the house in a cool, dry place to keep it intact throughout the holiday season.
Enjoy your festive masterpiece!
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