Let’s Build a Gingerbread House – With Recipes! 🍪✨
It’s Gingerbread House Day! This year, why not take it up a notch by baking your own gingerbread and making royal icing from scratch? Whether you’re using a kit or going DIY, this timeless tradition is the perfect way to spread holiday cheer.
Homemade Gingerbread Recipe
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp ground ginger
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 2/3 cup molasses
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and spices. In a separate bowl, cream butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Add molasses, egg, and vanilla, and mix until combined. Gradually add dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
- Chill: Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Roll and Cut: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness and cut out pieces for your house using templates or freehand shapes.
- Bake: Place pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes. Cool completely before assembling.
Royal Icing Recipe
Ingredients:
- 3 large egg whites
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp cream of tartar
- 1 tsp vanilla or almond extract (optional)
Instructions:
- In a clean bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until stiff peaks form.
- Transfer icing to a piping bag for easy decorating. Keep covered when not in use to prevent drying out.
Assemble and Decorate Your House
- Build: Use royal icing to glue your gingerbread pieces together. Let it set for at least 30 minutes.
- Decorate: Get creative with candies, sprinkles, and frosting to bring your gingerbread house to life!
Tips for Success
- Use Templates: Create paper stencils for precise house shapes.
- Support While Drying: Use cans or jars to prop up walls as the icing sets.
- Make It Personal: Add small touches like powdered sugar “snow” or pretzel fences.
Share Your Creations!
We’d love to see your gingerbread masterpieces! Post a photo on social media and tag us using #PresleeGingerbread. Let’s make this season extra sweet!
Happy building and baking! 🎄
