Save A festive and interactive cookie kit featuring soft gingerbread cookies, colorful icings, and assorted candies perfect for holiday gatherings or creative baking fun.
This fun DIY gingerbread people decorating board makes holiday baking enjoyable for all ages and creates lasting memories.
Ingredients
- Gingerbread Cookies: 2 3/4 cups (345 g) all-purpose flour, 1 tbsp ground ginger, 2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/2 tsp ground cloves, 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/4 tsp salt, 3/4 cup (170 g) unsalted butter softened, 2/3 cup (130 g) dark brown sugar packed, 1 large egg, 1/2 cup (120 ml) unsulfured molasses, 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- Royal Icing: 2 cups (240 g) powdered sugar sifted, 2 tbsp meringue powder, 3–4 tbsp water, Food coloring gels (red, green, blue, yellow as desired)
- Decorations: Assorted candies (mini chocolate chips, sprinkles, candy eyes, mini M&Ms, gumdrops etc.)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt.
- Step 2:
- In a large bowl, cream butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg, molasses, and vanilla mix until combined.
- Step 3:
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixing until a soft dough forms. Divide in half, flatten into disks, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 1 hour.
- Step 4:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Step 5:
- Roll dough on a lightly floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness. Use gingerbread people cookie cutters to cut shapes place on prepared sheets.
- Step 6:
- Bake 10–12 minutes or until edges are set. Cool on baking sheets 5 minutes then transfer to a rack to cool completely.
- Step 7:
- For royal icing, whisk powdered sugar and meringue powder. Add water gradually to reach piping consistency. Divide and tint with food coloring as desired.
- Step 8:
- Arrange cookies, bowls of icing, and assorted candies on a large board or platter.
- Step 9:
- Invite everyone to decorate their own gingerbread people with icing and candies!
Save Making and decorating gingerbread cookies has been a beloved tradition for our family during the holidays bringing everyone together in joyful creativity.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, electric mixer, rolling pin, gingerbread people cookie cutters, baking sheets, parchment paper, cooling rack, icing piping bags or squeeze bottles, spatulas
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), eggs, and dairy (butter). Some candies may contain nuts or soy—always check ingredient labels.
Nutritional Information
Per decorated cookie (estimated): Calories 225, Total Fat 7 g, Carbohydrates 38 g, Protein 2 g
Save This gingerbread decorating board offers a perfect blend of fun and festive flavors making it an unforgettable holiday baking experience.
Recipe FAQ Section
- → How long should I chill the dough before baking?
Chill the dough wrapped in plastic for at least 1 hour to ensure it firms up and is easier to roll out.
- → What is the ideal baking time for softer cookies?
Bake the gingerbread pieces for around 10 minutes for a softer texture; extend to 12 minutes for crispier edges.
- → How do I achieve the best consistency for royal icing?
Whisk powdered sugar and meringue powder, then gradually add water until the icing reaches a smooth piping consistency.
- → Can I substitute meringue powder with something else?
Yes, 1 egg white can replace meringue powder but ensure it is handled safely and fresh.
- → What decorations complement the gingerbread people?
Use assorted candies like mini chocolate chips, sprinkles, candy eyes, mini M&Ms, and gumdrops for colorful detailing.
- → How should I store undecorated gingerbread shapes?
Keep them in an airtight container for up to one week to maintain freshness before decorating.