In the realm of holiday baking, gingerbread houses stand as iconic edible masterpieces that bring joy and wonder to people of all ages. These whimsical structures, crafted from a sweet and spicy gingerbread dough, are transformed into miniature winter wonderlands adorned with an array of candies, cookies, and frosting. The process of creating a gingerbread house is as much an art form as it is a culinary endeavor, requiring patience, creativity, and a love for the festive spirit.
This comprehensive guide to gingerbread house icing provides all the essential knowledge and techniques needed to create stunning and delicious gingerbread houses. We'll delve into the secrets of royal icing, the go-to adhesive and decorative element for gingerbread houses. Learn how to achieve the perfect consistency, whether you prefer a thick piping consistency for intricate details or a flood consistency for smooth, even surfaces. Discover the art of coloring royal icing, using food coloring gels or natural ingredients like beet juice and turmeric, to create a vibrant palette for your gingerbread house decorations.
Beyond royal icing, we'll explore alternative icing options that can add unique flavors and textures to your gingerbread house. From the delicate sweetness of powdered sugar icing to the rich, creamy smoothness of cream cheese frosting, there are countless possibilities to suit your taste preferences. We'll also provide tips for making vegan and gluten-free icing variations, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the magic of gingerbread houses, regardless of dietary restrictions.
This guide is your ultimate resource for creating stunning gingerbread houses that will be the centerpiece of your holiday celebrations. Whether you're a seasoned gingerbread house builder or embarking on your first adventure, you'll find all the information and inspiration you need to create edible masterpieces that will amaze and delight your family and friends. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let's embark on a gingerbread house icing journey that will leave you with memories to cherish for years to come.
GINGERBREAD HOUSE ICING
Saved this recipe from a parent workshop with my oldest daughter. Very easy to whip up, and the kids LOVED to taste it along the way!! Used whatever leftover icing to "glue" gingerbread house ingredients with a clean popsticle stick to an empty 8oz. milk carton.
Provided by AngelaC
Categories Dessert
Time 12m
Yield 4-6 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 3
Steps:
- In a large clean bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar with electric mixer at medium speed.
- Add powdered sugar in small amounts, mixing well on high speed after each addition.
- Beat on high speed 4-5 minutes or until mixture thickens.
- Refrigerate, covered, until ready to use.
- You may need to stir icing to soften before use.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 568.2, Sodium 44.1, Carbohydrate 142.6, Sugar 139.6, Protein 2.7
GINGERBREAD HOUSE DOUGH & ICING
Dough designed for gingerbread houses to with stand cracks and sagging but still delicious. Tips: * If your dough is too tough to roll-out, microwave for 10-15 seconds. * Use aluminum foil to roll-out, transfer and bake your pieces. Cut a piece of foil the same size as your baking sheet. Wipe your working surface with a damp sponge and lay the foil on top. This will prevent the foil from slipping. Sprinkle the foil with flour, roll-out your dough, cut your pieces, lift the entire piece of foil onto your baking sheet and bake. Use a fresh piece of foil for each roll-out. * A pizza cutter provides a quick, straight line for large pieces like walls and roofs. * Cut all windows and doors before baking. * Prevent a lopsided house by holding the sides in place until dry. * Pint-size zip-lock freezer bags make excellent frosting bags. Snip off the corner of the bag, fill with frosting, zip-lock closed and decorate. * Variety of candy used to decorate is more important than quantity. * Rice Krispie Treats, tinted green, make fun uniquely shaped bushes and trees.
Provided by NcMysteryShopper
Categories Dessert
Time 40m
Yield 1 House
Number Of Ingredients 13
Steps:
- Bring sugar, molasses, ginger and cinnamon to a boil in a large saucepan. Add baking soda (it will boil up). Place chopped butter in the bottom of a large mixing bowl and pour the molasses mixture on top. Mix to combine and stir in beaten egg. Gradually add flour. Knead until thoroughly combined, adding additional flour to obtain a stiff dough as needed. Divide in two. Form into rectangle-shaped mounds and cover with plastic wrap and chill.
- Roll dough into 1/4 inch thick rectangles according to the size you need for the templates. Cut out shapes and transfer to lined or prepared or non-stick baking sheets. Bake in a moderate oven 325°F for approximately 20 minutes or until the dough turns a uniform dark golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool completely before removing from sheet pan.
- Royal Icing: Place all ingredients in clean mixing bowl. Using whisk attachment combine ingredients on low speed. Increase speed to high and whip until mixture is stiff, approximately 5 minutes. Remove from mixer. (Hand held mixer will take few minute longer).
- Remove 3/4 of the mixture to another bowl and cover bowl with a damp towel until you are ready to use icing, or icing will dry and a crust will form. Replace mixer on machine, and on low speed, add additional powdered sugar for "cement" used to hold walls up.
- Note: If worried about raw egg whites, use meringue powder available at decorating supply and specialty food stores. Replace each egg white with 1 tablespoon meringue powder and 2 tablespoons warm water. Proceed with recipe.
- Icing tip: Caramelize about 1/2-1 cup of sugar use as "superglue" to construct the house. Dries fast and hard. Use the royal icing to cover up the seams and to stick on the candy.
Tips:
- Make the icing ahead of time: Gingerbread house icing can be made up to 2 weeks in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. When you're ready to use it, stir it until it reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency.
- Use a piping bag or zip-top bag to apply the icing: This will help you create clean, even lines and avoid making a mess. If you don't have a piping bag, you can use a spoon or butter knife to spread the icing.
- Start with the roof: This will help to prevent the icing from dripping down the sides of the house. Once the roof is iced, you can move on to the walls and then the foundation.
- Be patient and work slowly: It takes time to ice a gingerbread house, so don't rush. If you try to go too fast, you'll end up with a messy house.
- Have fun! Decorating a gingerbread house is a great way to get into the holiday spirit. So relax, enjoy yourself, and let your creativity flow.
Conclusion:
Gingerbread house icing is a delicious and versatile way to decorate your holiday gingerbread house. With a little planning and effort, you can create a beautiful and festive gingerbread house that will be the centerpiece of your holiday table. So get creative and have fun!
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