Gingerbread House

Name: Gingerbread House
Prep time: 2 h
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 2 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 + ⅓ cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon ground ginger; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; ½ teaspoon ground allspice; ¼ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon baking soda; 1 large egg; ½ cup butter, melted and cooled; ½ cup brown sugar, packed; ½ cup molasses; 1 tablespoon water; 7 Jolly Ranchers; 2 large egg whites; 2 + ¾ cups confectioners' sugar; ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar (optional for flavor); Assorted candies; Confectioners' sugar; Shredded coconut

By:

Marry

Published:

November 18, 2025

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Creating the perfect gingerbread house is one of those holiday traditions that blends creativity with sweet, spicy scents wafting through your kitchen. As you gather around with family and friends to craft these festive masterpieces, you’ll find that every little piece is a chance to have fun, share stories, and celebrate the season together. This gingerbread house recipe is not just about following steps; it’s about the joy of mixing, rolling, and decorating a little piece of edible art. Plus, when it’s all said and done, you’ll have a stunning centerpiece that will invite laughter and deliciousness into your holiday gatherings. So, roll up your sleeves, crank up the holiday tunes, and let’s get started on making your very own gingerbread house!

Why This Recipe Works

Creating a gingerbread house that’s both fun to make and sturdy enough to hold decorations is all about balance. The key is getting the right consistency in your gingerbread dough and employing the perfect technique while assembling. This recipe delivers a soft, yet durable gingerbread that won’t crumble under the weight of icing and candy. With simple ingredients and clear steps, you’ll be on your way to a beautiful creation in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Gingerbread House

This gingerbread house recipe results in a visually stunning centerpiece for your holiday table and provides an interactive experience for all. The delightful aroma of spices wafting through your home will bring everyone together, igniting the holiday spirit. Plus, the satisfaction of crafting something so festive is simply priceless!

Ingredients for the Gingerbread House

For the Gingerbread House:

2 + ⅓ cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon ground ginger
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground allspice
¼ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon baking soda
1 large egg
½ cup butter, melted and cooled
½ cup brown sugar, packed
½ cup molasses
1 tablespoon water
7 Jolly Ranchers

For the Royal Icing:

2 large egg whites
2 + ¾ cups confectioners’ sugar
¼ teaspoon cream of tartar (optional for flavor)

For Decorating:

Assorted candies
Confectioners’ sugar
Shredded coconut

Prepare the Gingerbread House Template

Print and Cut Template

Before starting, print out our Gingerbread House Template and cut out the gingerbread shapes. Set these templates aside for later use; having them ready makes the process much smoother.

Bake the Gingerbread House

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, allspice, salt, and baking soda. Set this mixture aside for later; it’s the foundation of your house!

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate medium mixing bowl, combine the egg, melted butter, brown sugar, molasses, and water. Use a hand mixer to beat these ingredients on medium speed until they are well mixed—this usually takes about one minute.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to bring the two mixtures together. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix on medium speed until just combined and no dry flour remains visible. You want it to be just right!

Chill the Dough

Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and form it into a ball. Depending on your preference, divide it into two equal sections, flatten each into a disc, and wrap securely in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least two hours, or even overnight for best results. This step is crucial for shaping.

Roll and Cut the Gingerbread

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F and line two baking sheets with silicone baking mats. This will help your gingerbread bake evenly.

Roll Out Dough

On a large piece of parchment paper, roll out one disc of dough at a time until it reaches about ¼-inch thickness. If the parchment slips, placing it on a silicone mat will provide stability.

Cut Shapes

Using the templates, cut out the gingerbread house components. A pizza cutter works wonders for straight edges, while a knife helps with fine details, like windows.

Create Stained Glass Windows

For each window, place a whole Jolly Rancher candy in the cutout. For circular windows, use half. Don’t worry; these will melt in baking and create a beautiful stained glass effect that everyone will admire.

Bake the Gingerbread

Place the cut pieces on the lined baking sheets and bake for 8–10 minutes or until the edges are set. After you remove them from the oven, use a knife to cut out the door shape while they’re still warm. Allow them to cool on the sheets for 5–10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Make Royal Icing

Beat Egg Whites

Using an electric mixer, beat the egg whites for about 10 seconds. Then, if you’re using it, add cream of tartar and continue mixing. Gradually mix in confectioners’ sugar, about ½ cup at a time, beating on high for about 5 minutes until the icing is thick enough to hold its shape.

Adjust Consistency

If your icing is too thick, add water a teaspoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Remember to cover it with a damp towel when not in use to prevent it from drying out.

Assemble the Gingerbread House

Create a Base

Start by cutting a piece of cardboard and wrapping it in aluminum foil to serve as a base for your house. Using a serving platter can enhance the presentation.

Attach Walls

Grab a piping bag fitted with a no. 5 round tip, and pipe a thick line of royal icing along the edges of the front piece. Attach one side wall and hold it until it partially sets. Repeat this process for the other wall and the back piece, ensuring all edges are sealed tight with icing.

Add the Roof

Once the icing has set for about an hour, run a thick line of royal icing along the edges of the side walls to attach the roof pieces. Hold them in place for a couple of minutes until they’re secure.

Build the Chimney

Using more royal icing, assemble the chimney and attach it to the roof. This little detail adds character and height!

Attach the Door

Run a thick line of icing on the door piece and gently attach it to the house, leaving it slightly ajar for that charming look.

Decorate Your Gingerbread House

Create Patterns

Using a no. 1 round tip on your piping bag, add decorative patterns along the roof, around the windows, and on other surfaces. Let your imagination run wild!

Add Snow

Sift confectioners’ sugar over the roof and sprinkle shredded coconut around the base. This creates a snowy effect, making your house perfect for winter.

Finish with Candies

Now for the fun part! Use royal icing to secure assorted candies all over your gingerbread house, adding a pop of color and personality.

Add Lights (Optional)

For a whimsical touch, consider placing a small battery-operated light inside the house. It illuminates the candy and looks enchanting.

Serving Suggestions

When you’re finished decorating your gingerbread house, serve it as a festive centerpiece at holiday gatherings. Allow family and friends to admire the beautiful decorations before enjoying bites of cookie and candy!

Tips for Success

Allow the gingerbread to rest after chilling for the best flavor; this helps the spices deepen.
Ensure thick layers of icing are used on all edges for stability during assembly and decoration.

Variations

Get creative! Experiment with different types of candies for decoration based on your personal preferences or seasonal themes, like a winter wonderland.
Consider adding edible glitter or spray for an enchanted effect that your guests will love.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, whole wheat flour can be used, but it may change the texture slightly.
How long can I keep the gingerbread house?
Undecorated gingerbread can be stored in an airtight container for up to two weeks; once decorated, it’s best enjoyed within a week.
What can I do if the royal icing is too runny?
Simply add more confectioners’ sugar until it reaches the desired thick consistency.
Can I make the gingerbread house in advance?
Absolutely! You can make the gingerbread and royal icing a few days ahead and assemble it when you’re ready.
Is it safe to eat the raw dough?
It’s best to avoid eating raw dough due to the raw egg; always bake the gingerbread before enjoying.

Crafting and decorating this gingerbread house not only results in a delightful treat for your holiday festivities, but it can also spark cherished traditions among family and friends. With stunning visuals and delicious flavors, this gingerbread house recipe is bound to become a favorite in your holiday cookbook. Happy baking!