Save 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 gingerbread house board has become a beloved tradition in our family every holiday season. It brings everyone together to create sweet, colorful masterpieces while sharing laughter and stories.
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 the 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 and present:
- 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:
- 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 This board has brought so many joyful family moments with kids and adults alike gathering to create and share smiles around the table.
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 (per serving)
Calories: 420 Total Fat: 8 g Carbohydrates: 85 g Protein: 4 g
Save This gingerbread house board is sure to bring festive cheer and creative fun to your holiday gatherings.
Recipe Guide
- → How do I make the gingerbread pieces sturdy?
Roll the dough evenly to 1/4 inch thickness and bake until firm but not browned. Cooling completely helps maintain structure.
- → What can I use instead of egg whites in royal icing?
For egg-free icing, substitute aquafaba (chickpea brine) to achieve similar stiffness and adhesion.
- → How should I store leftover gingerbread pieces?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain freshness.
- → Can I customize decorations on the platter?
Yes, add assorted candies, sprinkles, edible glitter, or fresh berries to personalize your display and enhance visual appeal.
- → What tools are recommended for assembling the display?
Use piping bags or small spatulas for royal icing, cookie cutters for shapes, and a large board or platter to arrange pieces and decorations.
- → Are there gluten-free options for this dish?
Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate gluten restrictions without compromising flavor.