Save to Pins A festive and interactive holiday platter featuring gingerbread house pieces, assorted candies, and decorative sweets for building and enjoying your own edible gingerbread creations.
This is a holiday tradition in our family where everyone gathers around to build their own gingerbread houses and share laughter.
Ingredients
- Gingerbread House Pieces: 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour, 3/4 cup (150 g) brown sugar, 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened, 2/3 cup (225 g) molasses, 1 large egg, 1 1/2 tsp ground ginger, 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/2 tsp ground cloves, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt
- Royal Icing (for glue): 2 large egg whites, 3 cups (360 g) powdered sugar, sifted, 1/2 tsp cream of tartar
- Decorations & Candy: 1 cup mini marshmallows, 1 cup assorted gumdrops, 1 cup candy canes, crushed or mini whole, 1 cup chocolate buttons or M&Ms, 1 cup peppermint candies, 1 cup jelly beans, 1/2 cup pretzel sticks, Assorted sprinkles, Edible glitter (optional)
- Extras: 1/2 cup shredded coconut (for snow effect), 1 cup fresh berries (optional, for color)
Instructions
- Prepare the gingerbread dough:
- In a large bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add molasses and egg, mixing well. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, spices, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, mixing until a dough forms. Divide dough in half, flatten into discs, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 1 hour.
- Bake gingerbread pieces:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll dough to 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) thickness. Using templates or cookie cutters, cut out gingerbread house panels (walls, roofs, doors) and transfer to lined baking sheets. Bake 12–15 minutes until firm. Let cool completely.
- Make the royal icing:
- Beat egg whites and cream of tartar until foamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until stiff peaks form. Transfer to a piping bag.
- Arrange pieces:
- Arrange all gingerbread pieces, candies, and decorations on a large board or platter. Place bowls of icing for glue and small spatulas or piping bags nearby.
- Assemble and decorate:
- Invite guests to assemble and decorate their own mini gingerbread houses using the provided pieces, icing, and candies.
- Add finishing touches:
- Sprinkle shredded coconut over the board for a snowy effect. Add berries for fresh color, if using.
- Enjoy:
- Enjoy as a festive centerpiece and delicious treat!
Save to Pins This recipe creates memorable family moments as everyone gets involved with building and decorating their own gingerbread houses.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowls, Electric mixer, Rolling pin, Gingerbread house templates or cookie cutters, Baking sheets, Parchment paper, Piping bags or small spatulas, Large serving board or platter, Small bowls for candies
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (gluten), eggs, milk (butter). Some candies may contain nuts or soy always check packaging. For severe allergies ensure all ingredients are certified allergen-free.
Nutritional Information
Calories 420 Total Fat 8 g Carbohydrates 85 g Protein 4 g per serving
Save to Pins This gingerbread house board is perfect for holiday gatherings combining creativity and delicious treats.
Questions & Answers
- → What spices are used in the gingerbread pieces?
The gingerbread dough includes ground ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, giving a warm, festive flavor.
- → How is the royal icing prepared?
Royal icing is made by beating egg whites with powdered sugar and cream of tartar until stiff peaks form, providing a strong edible glue.
- → Can this be adapted for egg-free diets?
Yes, egg whites in the royal icing can be replaced with aquafaba (chickpea brine) to maintain the same texture and adhesive quality.
- → What candies work best for decorating?
Mini marshmallows, gumdrops, candy canes, chocolate buttons, peppermint candies, jelly beans, pretzel sticks, and sprinkles add variety and color.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Store leftover gingerbread pieces in an airtight container for up to one week to maintain freshness.
- → Are there gluten-free options?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend when preparing the dough.