# Components:
→ Gingerbread Dough
01 - 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 teaspoon baking soda
03 - 2 teaspoons ground ginger
04 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
05 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
06 - 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
07 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
08 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
09 - 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
10 - 1 large egg
11 - 1/2 cup molasses
12 - 2 tablespoons honey
→ Royal Icing
13 - 2 large egg whites
14 - 3 1/4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
15 - 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
16 - Food coloring (optional)
→ Decorations
17 - Assorted candies (gumdrops, candy canes, chocolate buttons, licorice, sprinkles)
18 - Shredded coconut or powdered sugar for snow effect
19 - Edible silver pearls (optional)
# Method:
01 - Whisk together flour, baking soda, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt in a bowl. In a separate large bowl, cream softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, molasses, and honey until combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing thoroughly. Divide dough into two portions, flatten into disks, wrap, and chill for at least one hour.
02 - Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Roll chilled dough on parchment paper to approximately 1/5 inch (5 mm) thickness. Cut shapes for walls, roof, door, and chimney using templates. Transfer cutouts to parchment-lined baking sheets. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until panels are firm and golden brown. Allow to cool completely.
03 - Beat egg whites until foamy. Gradually add sifted powdered sugar and cream of tartar, beating until stiff peaks form. If desired, divide and tint with food coloring. Cover with a damp cloth to prevent drying.
04 - Pipe thick lines of royal icing along edges of the gingerbread wall panels. Assemble walls on a sturdy base and hold in place for a few minutes until the icing sets. Allow walls to dry for 30 minutes before attaching roof panels. Secure roof with royal icing and support until fully set.
05 - Attach assorted candies using royal icing, creating icicles and snowy effects. Sprinkle shredded coconut or powdered sugar to simulate snow. Let the decorated house dry completely before moving.
