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.
Preparing and decorating the gingerbread house has become a treasured holiday tradition in my home.
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 Making gingerbread houses brings our family together in laughter and creativity every winter season.
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 kit offers a delightful way to celebrate the holidays with both baking and decorating, creating sweet memories for years to come.
Recipe FAQ
- → What ingredients are included in the gingerbread panels?
The panels are crafted from all-purpose flour, brown sugar, butter, molasses, eggs, baking soda, and warm spices like ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
- → How is the royal icing prepared?
Royal icing is made by whipping egg whites with powdered sugar and a hint of lemon juice until thick and glossy, perfect for assembling and decorating.
- → Can the gingerbread panels be made ahead of time?
Yes, baked panels can be stored for up to a week in an airtight container, making preparation flexible.
- → What tools are recommended for assembly?
Essential tools include an electric mixer, mixing bowls, rolling pin, parchment paper, baking sheets, a piping bag with tips, and a wire rack for cooling.
- → Are there options for decorating besides the included candies?
Decorations can be customized with your favorite candies or edible glitter to personalize the finished piece.