# Components:
→ Gingerbread Dough
01 - 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 teaspoon baking soda
03 - 2 teaspoons ground ginger
04 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
05 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
06 - 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
07 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
08 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
09 - 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
10 - 1 large egg
11 - 1/2 cup molasses or dark treacle
12 - 2 tablespoons honey
→ Royal Icing
13 - 2 large egg whites
14 - 3 1/4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
15 - 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
16 - Food coloring (optional)
→ Decorations
17 - Assorted candies (gumdrops, candy canes, chocolate buttons, licorice, sprinkles)
18 - Shredded coconut or powdered sugar (for snow effect)
19 - Edible silver pearls (optional)
# Preparation Steps:
01 - Whisk together flour, baking soda, spices, and salt in a bowl. In a separate large bowl, cream softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg, molasses, and honey. Gradually incorporate dry ingredients until fully combined. Divide dough into two disks, wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour.
02 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Roll chilled dough on parchment paper to 1/5 inch thickness. Cut out house shapes using templates for walls, roof, door, and chimney. Transfer shapes to lined baking sheets. Bake for 12-15 minutes until firm and golden. Allow to cool completely.
03 - Beat egg whites until foamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and cream of tartar, beating until stiff peaks form. Divide and tint with food coloring if desired. Cover with damp cloth until use.
04 - Pipe thick lines of royal icing along edges of walls and assemble on a sturdy base. Hold panels in place briefly until set. Allow to dry for 30 minutes before attaching roof panels with icing and support until fully set.
05 - Use royal icing to attach candies and create icicles and snow effects. Sprinkle shredded coconut or powdered sugar for added snow effect. Let dry completely before moving the house.
