The Ultimate Gingerbread House And Cookie Guide

unsalted butter

🥗Healthier: coconut oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil provides a dairy-free option while margarine is often less expensive.

powdered sugar

🥗Healthier: stevia

💰Cheaper: granulated sugar

Stevia offers a low-calorie alternative, while granulated sugar is more affordable.

royal icing

🥗Healthier: Greek yogurt frosting

💰Cheaper: buttercream

Greek yogurt frosting is lighter, while buttercream is often less expensive.

candy decorations

🥗Healthier: dried fruit

💰Cheaper: chocolate chips

Dried fruit adds natural sweetness, while chocolate chips can be more affordable.

Use non-stick spray on the Dutch oven.

Dissolve sugar in liquid and bring to a boil.

Incorporate 4 cups of flour into the mixture, adding a cup at a time.

Knead the dough when warm, using additional flour as needed.

Divide the dough into three pieces to cut out shapes for the house.

Roll out the dough to about a quarter to a third of an inch thickness.

Use templates to cut out shapes for the house, leaving windows and doors in place until after baking.

Bake the gingerbread pieces until set, then cool before decorating.

Make royal icing using pasteurized egg whites and cream of tartar, or meringue powder.

Decorate the house with icing and additional candies.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens