Get ready to transform your kitchen into a winter wonderland with the most enchanting holiday project ever - a spectacular Gingerbread Christmas Santa House! This isn't just a recipe; it's a delicious adventure that will make your family's eyes light up with pure Christmas magic. Imagine crafting a stunning edible masterpiece that looks like it's straight out of a holiday fairy tale, complete with intricate details and sweet decorations that will become the centerpiece of your festive celebrations.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 60 mins
Total Time: 90 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 1 house
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1 egg
- Royal icing for decoration
- Assorted candies for decoration
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, baking soda, and salt until well combined and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add molasses and egg to the butter mixture, beating until thoroughly incorporated and smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a consistent dough forms.
- Divide the dough into two equal portions, flatten into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 2 hours to allow the dough to firm up.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line several baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to approximately 1/4 inch thickness, using house template cutouts for walls, roof, and decorative pieces.
- Carefully transfer cut pieces to prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each piece.
- Bake gingerbread pieces for 12-15 minutes, or until edges are slightly golden and firm to the touch.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely on wire racks before attempting to assemble the house.
- Prepare royal icing by mixing powdered sugar, egg whites, and cream of tartar until stiff peaks form.
- Use royal icing as "glue" to assemble the gingerbread house walls and roof, holding pieces in place until set.
- Once structure is stable, decorate with additional royal icing and assorted candies to create festive Santa house design.
- Allow completed gingerbread house to dry and set for several hours before final display or serving.
Tips
- • Chill your dough thoroughly - this prevents spreading and helps maintain crisp template shapes • Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter for clean, precise gingerbread pieces • Let each baked piece cool completely before assembly to ensure structural integrity • Royal icing works best when it's thick enough to hold pieces together but not too runny • Use a sturdy base like a wooden cutting board or large platter for your house • Have extra candies on hand for creative decorating moments • Work slowly and patiently during assembly - rushing can lead to structural collapses • Consider using small cans or cups to support walls while the icing sets • Store your completed house in a cool, dry place to maintain its shape and decoration
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
