Pin It 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 platter has become a cherished tradition with my family during the holidays, sparking creativity and joyful moments together.
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 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.
- Assemble platter:
- 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.
- Invite guests:
- 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!
Pin It This recipe brings the family together, creating delightful memories as everyone participates in building and decorating their gingerbread houses.
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 and 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
Pin It This gingerbread house board adds a festive and interactive touch to your holiday celebrations, perfect for sharing joy and creativity.
Recipe FAQs
- → What spices are used in the gingerbread dough?
Ground ginger, cinnamon, and cloves create the warm, festive flavor in the dough.
- → How is the royal icing prepared and used?
Egg whites are beaten with cream of tartar and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form, serving as edible glue for assembling pieces.
- → Can the gingerbread house pieces be made ahead of time?
Yes, baked gingerbread panels can be stored airtight for up to a week before assembling.
- → What candies decorate the board?
Assorted gumdrops, candy canes, mini marshmallows, chocolate buttons, peppermint candies, jelly beans, pretzel sticks, and sprinkles add color and texture.
- → Are there any allergy-friendly options?
For egg-free icing, aquafaba replaces egg whites. Gluten-free flour can substitute regular flour for dietary needs.