# Ingredients:
→ 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)
# Directions:
01 - Cream butter and brown sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Incorporate molasses and egg, mixing thoroughly. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, and salt. Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a dough forms. Divide dough into two discs, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
02 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Roll chilled dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Using gingerbread house templates or cookie cutters, cut out panels including walls, roofs, and doors. Arrange pieces on parchment-lined baking sheets. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until firm to touch. Allow to cool completely on wire racks.
03 - Beat egg whites and cream of tartar until foamy. Gradually add sifted powdered sugar while continuing to beat until stiff peaks develop. Transfer icing to a piping bag fitted with a small round tip.
04 - Arrange all gingerbread pieces, candies, and decorations neatly on a large serving board or platter. Place bowls of royal icing alongside with small spatulas or piping bags for easy access.
05 - Invite guests to construct and embellish their own gingerbread houses using the provided components, icing, and assortments of candies and decorations.
06 - Sprinkle shredded coconut over the display for a snow-like effect. Optionally, add fresh berries for vibrant color contrast.
07 - Present the festive centerpiece and enjoy as a delicious interactive treat suitable for holiday gatherings.
