A holiday holiday centerpiece with gingerbread pieces, candies, and decorations for assembling edible creations.
# Ingredient List:
→ Gingerbread House Pieces
01 - 3 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 3/4 cup packed 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 (for glue)
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, for color)
# Directions:
01 - Cream butter and brown sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Add molasses and egg, mixing thoroughly. In a separate bowl, whisk flour, spices, baking soda, and salt. Gradually combine dry ingredients with wet until dough forms. Divide dough into two discs, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate at least 1 hour.
02 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Roll chilled dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Using templates or cookie cutters, cut gingerbread house panels including walls, roofs, and doors. Transfer to parchment-lined baking sheets.
03 - Bake panels for 12 to 15 minutes or until firm. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely on wire racks.
04 - Beat egg whites and cream of tartar until foamy. Gradually add powdered sugar while beating until stiff peaks form. Transfer icing to a piping bag for assembly use.
05 - Place gingerbread pieces, candies, and decorations on a large serving board or platter. Set small bowls of royal icing with piping bags or spatulas nearby for assembly.
06 - Invite guests to build and embellish mini gingerbread houses using the provided pieces and decorations, adhering pieces together with royal icing.
07 - Sprinkle shredded coconut over the board for a snowy effect. Add fresh berries for color if desired.
