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Gingerbread House

A delightful holiday baking activity for families, creating a visually stunning gingerbread house adorned with colorful candies.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 3 hours
Servings: 12 pieces
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Calories: 175
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Gingerbread Dough
  • 3.5 cups all-purpose flour The foundation of your gingerbread house.
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda Helps the dough rise.
  • 1 tablespoon ground ginger Infuses warmth and spiciness.
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon Adds a sweet aroma.
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground cloves Balances the flavors.
  • 0.25 teaspoon salt Enhances all flavors.
  • 0.75 cup unsalted butter (softened) Provides richness.
  • 1 cup brown sugar (packed) Adds moisture and caramel-like flavor.
  • 1 large egg Acts as a binder.
  • 1 cup molasses Gives the gingerbread its dark color.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Adds aromatic depth.
For Assembly and Decoration
  • Royal icing (store-bought or homemade) Acts as glue and provides a sweet finish.
  • Candy decorations (like gumdrops, peppermint candies, chocolate, sprinkles, etc.) Infuses fun and color.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Whisk to blend.
  2. In a separate bowl, cream butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Beat in egg, molasses, and vanilla until smooth.
  3. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients. Mix until a thick dough forms. Chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours.
Baking
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Cut out pieces for the gingerbread house using templates.
  2. Place cut pieces on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, until firm and golden brown. Let cool completely.
Assembly and Decorating
  1. While the pieces cool, prepare royal icing by beating powdered sugar, egg whites, and water until thick and glossy.
  2. Assemble the house using royal icing as glue, allowing it to set.
  3. Decorate with royal icing and colorful candies. Enjoy your festive masterpiece!

Notes

Chill the dough for easier rolling. Use templates for uniform pieces. Ensure royal icing is thick for decoration stability. Get creative with candy selections!