# Components:
→ Gingerbread Dough
01 - 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
03 - 7 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
04 - 1/3 cup molasses or dark honey
05 - 1 large egg
06 - 1 teaspoon ground ginger
07 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
08 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
09 - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
10 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
→ Royal Icing
11 - 1 egg white
12 - 1 2/3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
13 - 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
→ Decoration
14 - 1.75 ounces white chocolate, melted
15 - Assorted white and brown candies such as chocolate buttons, white sprinkles, mini marshmallows
16 - Edible glitter or silver pearls (optional)
# Preparation Steps:
01 - In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with brown sugar until light and fluffy.
02 - Add the egg and molasses to the creamed mixture and mix thoroughly.
03 - In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, and salt.
04 - Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a smooth dough forms. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
05 - Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
06 - On a floured surface, roll the dough to approximately 1/5 inch (5 mm) thickness. Cut out house panels (front, back, sides, and roof) approximately 4 to 5 inches (10–12 cm) each using templates or a knife.
07 - Place the cut pieces on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until edges are just firm. Transfer to a wire rack and cool completely.
08 - Beat the egg white to soft peaks, then gradually add sifted powdered sugar and lemon juice, continuing to beat until thick and glossy.
09 - Use royal icing as adhesive to join the gingerbread panels, holding each piece in place briefly until set. Allow the assembled frame to dry completely for at least 30 minutes.
10 - Drizzle melted white chocolate over the frame and affix assorted candies and sprinkles using royal icing. Optionally, dust with edible glitter or silver pearls.
11 - Once set, place the gingerbread frame on a serving platter and arrange additional cookies, nuts, or seasonal treats around it to complete the festive display.
