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 brought my family together for a joyful afternoon of creativity and sweet treats every holiday season.
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 Decorating the gingerbread house has become a cherished tradition that brings laughter and warmth to our family gatherings.
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
Calories 430 Total Fat 8 g Carbohydrates 89 g Protein 5 g per serving based on 8 servings
Save This gingerbread house decorating kit is perfect for holiday fun and makes a delightful centerpiece for festive celebrations.
Recipe FAQ
- → What ingredients are used for the gingerbread panels?
The panels are made from flour, brown sugar, butter, molasses, eggs, baking soda, and warm spices including ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
- → How is the royal icing prepared?
Royal icing is created by beating egg whites with powdered sugar and a touch of lemon juice until thick and glossy, perfect for assembling and decorating.
- → Can I customize the decorations?
Absolutely, you can swap candies or add edible glitter to personalize the look and add festive flair to your structure.
- → What tools are recommended for assembly?
Essential tools include an electric mixer, rolling pin, piping bag with a round tip, baking sheets, and parchment paper for clean preparation.
- → How long can gingerbread panels be stored before use?
Panels can be baked up to one week in advance and kept in an airtight container to maintain freshness before assembly.
- → Is this suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
This kit contains wheat, eggs, and dairy. Some candies might have nuts or soy, so checking labels is advised for allergies.