A holiday platter of spiced gingerbread, royal icing, and candies arranged for interactive festive enjoyment.
# What You'll Need:
→ Gingerbread House Pieces
01 - 3 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 3/4 cup brown sugar
03 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
04 - 2/3 cup molasses
05 - 1 large egg
06 - 1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger
07 - 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
08 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
09 - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
10 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
→ Royal Icing
11 - 2 large egg whites
12 - 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
13 - 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
→ Decorations & Candy
14 - 1 cup mini marshmallows
15 - 1 cup assorted gumdrops
16 - 1 cup candy canes, crushed or mini whole
17 - 1 cup chocolate buttons or M&Ms
18 - 1 cup peppermint candies
19 - 1 cup jelly beans
20 - 1/2 cup pretzel sticks
21 - Assorted sprinkles
22 - Edible glitter (optional)
→ Extras
23 - 1/2 cup shredded coconut (for snow effect)
24 - 1 cup fresh berries (optional)
# Cooking Steps:
01 - In a large bowl, cream butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add molasses and egg, mix to combine. In a separate bowl, whisk flour, spices, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, stirring until dough forms. Divide in half, flatten into discs, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 1 hour.
02 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Roll dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Using templates or cutters, cut out panels for walls, roofs, and doors. Place on parchment-lined sheets and bake 12 to 15 minutes until firm. Cool completely.
03 - Beat egg whites and cream of tartar until foamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until stiff peaks form. Transfer to a piping bag.
04 - Arrange gingerbread pieces, candies, and decorations on a large board. Provide bowls of icing and tools for assembly and decoration. Invite guests to build their own gingerbread houses.
05 - Sprinkle shredded coconut over board for a snowy effect and add fresh berries for color if desired.
06 - Use the decorated houses as a festive centerpiece and edible treat.
