Gingerbread House with Royal Icing

Name: Gingerbread House with Royal Icing
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 1 house
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon ground ginger; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup molasses; 1 large egg; 4 cups powdered sugar; 3 large egg whites or 1/4 cup meringue powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Water (as needed for consistency); Assorted candies (gumdrops, candy canes, chocolate); Sprinkles; Edible glitter (optional)

Highlighted under: Indulgent Dessert Recipes

Create a charming gingerbread house decorated with royal icing, perfect for holiday festivities and family gatherings.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-12T20:33:49.796Z

This Gingerbread House with Royal Icing is not just a treat but also a delightful project to enjoy with family and friends during the holiday season. The aroma of ginger and spices fills the air as you create something beautiful and delicious!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A fun and engaging activity for the whole family
Deliciously spiced gingerbread that stands the test of time
Beautifully decorated with royal icing for a festive touch

      

The Joy of Gingerbread Houses

Building a gingerbread house is more than just a culinary project; it's a cherished tradition that brings families together during the holiday season. As the aroma of spiced gingerbread fills your kitchen, it creates a warm and inviting atmosphere that sets the stage for creativity and laughter. Each piece of the house represents an opportunity for collaboration, where family members can share ideas and contribute to the design.

This activity is not only enjoyable but also educational. It allows children to practice their fine motor skills while decorating and assembling the house. The process of measuring, mixing, and constructing introduces basic math and science principles in a fun and engaging way. Plus, the satisfaction of seeing your completed gingerbread house is an achievement that everyone can take pride in.

Choosing the Right Decorations

The beauty of a gingerbread house lies in its decorations. When it comes to embellishing your creation, the possibilities are endless! Consider using a variety of candies, such as gumdrops, candy canes, and chocolate, to add color and flair. Let your imagination run wild as you design your house, incorporating different textures and shapes to bring your vision to life.

Don’t forget about edible glitter and sprinkles, which can add a magical touch to your masterpiece. You can even create themed decorations based on your favorite holiday stories or personal memories. Whether you opt for a traditional look or a more whimsical design, the key is to have fun and enjoy the process of transforming your gingerbread house into a unique work of art.

Tips for Success

To ensure your gingerbread house stands strong and looks its best, follow a few simple tips. First, make sure your gingerbread pieces are completely cooled before assembly. Warm gingerbread can warp and break, making it difficult to construct a stable structure. Additionally, use a thick consistency of royal icing for assembly; it acts like glue and provides the necessary support for your house.

When decorating, start with the roof and work your way down. This way, any excess decorations that might fall can be easily covered by the lower sections. Lastly, don’t rush the process! Allow each layer of icing to dry before adding more decorations, and enjoy the time spent creating together. Remember, the end result is not just about perfection; it’s about the memories made along the way.

Ingredients

For the Gingerbread

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon ground ginger
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup molasses
1 large egg

For the Royal Icing

4 cups powdered sugar
3 large egg whites or 1/4 cup meringue powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Water (as needed for consistency)

For Decoration

Assorted candies (gumdrops, candy canes, chocolate)
Sprinkles
Edible glitter (optional)

Gather all your ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth baking process!

Instructions

Prepare the Gingerbread Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the molasses and egg, mixing until combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.

Roll and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out your gingerbread dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Cut out pieces for the house (walls, roof, base) using templates or cookie cutters. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until firm. Allow to cool completely.

Make Royal Icing

In a mixing bowl, combine powdered sugar, egg whites (or meringue powder), and vanilla extract. Beat on high speed until the icing forms stiff peaks, about 5-7 minutes. If the icing is too thick, add a little water until the desired consistency is reached.

Assemble the House

Using royal icing as glue, attach the walls to the base, then add the roof pieces. Allow the structure to set for at least 30 minutes before decorating.

Decorate Your Gingerbread House

Use the remaining royal icing to decorate your gingerbread house with candies, sprinkles, and any other decorations you desire. Get creative and have fun!

Let your decorated gingerbread house dry completely before moving it. Enjoy your festive creation!

Storing Your Gingerbread House

Once your gingerbread house is complete, you may want to preserve it for display. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent the icing from melting or fading. If you plan to keep it for an extended period, consider placing it in an airtight container to protect it from humidity and pests.

However, keep in mind that while a gingerbread house can last several weeks, it's best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftover gingerbread pieces or decorations, consider using them to create fun treats like gingerbread cookies or festive gift bags for friends and family.

Gingerbread House Variations

Feel free to experiment with different designs and flavors for your gingerbread house. Instead of traditional gingerbread, try using chocolate or spice-flavored dough for a unique twist. You can also explore different architectural styles, from classic cottages to modern homes, to reflect your personal taste.

For added fun, host a gingerbread decorating party where each participant creates their own mini gingerbread house. This can be a delightful way to encourage creativity while allowing everyone to showcase their unique style. Regardless of the variations, the essence of this activity remains the same—bringing joy and togetherness during the holiday season.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought gingerbread mix instead?

Yes, you can use a store-bought mix for convenience, but homemade gingerbread offers a fresher taste.

→ How long will the gingerbread house last?

If stored in a cool, dry place, your gingerbread house can last for several weeks.

→ Can I eat the royal icing?

Yes, royal icing made with powdered sugar and egg whites is edible. However, if using raw eggs is a concern, consider using meringue powder.

→ What can I use for decorations?

You can use various candies, sprinkles, and even dried fruits to decorate your gingerbread house.