Save to Pinterest 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 so much joy decorating with my family every year.
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 to Pinterest Decorating this gingerbread house always brings the family closer during the holidays.
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 to Pinterest Start early and enjoy every moment creating your festive gingerbread masterpiece.
Recipe FAQs
- → What spices are used in the gingerbread panels?
The gingerbread panels include ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg to create a warm, festive flavor.
- → Can children participate in assembling the house?
Yes, children can join in, especially using safe alternatives like pasteurized egg whites for the royal icing to ensure safety.
- → How long does it take to prepare the gingerbread panels?
Preparation and baking of the panels combined take about 1 hour, with 45 minutes prep and 15 minutes baking.
- → What candies are included for decorating?
The decorating assortment includes gumdrops, mini pretzels, chocolate buttons, sprinkles, candy canes, and optional shredded coconut and mini marshmallows.
- → Can the gingerbread panels be made in advance?
Yes, panels can be baked up to a week ahead and stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- → What tools are needed for assembly and decoration?
Tools required include an electric mixer, rolling pin, piping bag with tips, baking sheets, parchment paper, and a wire rack for cooling.