The holidays are just around the corner, and what better way to get into the festive spirit than by making your own DIY wood gingerbread house? This recipe is perfect for both adults and kids, and it’s a great way to spend time with your loved ones during the holiday season. Plus, it’s a fun and creative way to decorate your home for the holidays!
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 1 egg yolk
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Assorted candy and decorations for decorating the gingerbread house
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the molasses and egg yolk, and continue to mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt.
- Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
- Divide the dough into two equal parts, and roll each part out on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
- Using a gingerbread house template, cut out the walls and roof of your gingerbread house. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned. Let cool completely before assembling.
- Decorate your gingerbread house with assorted candy and decorations.
Nutritional Information:
Calories per serving: 250
Total fat: 10g
Saturated fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 40mg
Sodium: 200mg
Total carbohydrates: 38g
Dietary fiber: 1g
Sugars: 20g
Protein: 3g
Cooking Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 10-12 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Rolling pin
- Gingerbread house template
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Assorted candy and decorations for decorating the gingerbread house
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your DIY wood gingerbread house as a festive centerpiece during your holiday gatherings. It’s a fun and creative way to decorate your home for the holidays!
Variations:
You can make your DIY wood gingerbread house as simple or as elaborate as you’d like. Try using different types of candy and decorations to create a unique and personalized gingerbread house.
Substitutions:
If you don’t have molasses, you can substitute with honey or corn syrup. You can also use gluten-free flour if you have dietary restrictions.
Storage:
Your DIY wood gingerbread house can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Tips:
- Make sure your butter is softened before mixing it with the brown sugar.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to prevent sticking.
- Let the gingerbread house cool completely before assembling and decorating.
Notes:
This recipe makes one gingerbread house.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make the gingerbread dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Can I freeze the gingerbread dough?
Yes, you can freeze the gingerbread dough for up to three months. Let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using.
Can I use royal icing to decorate my gingerbread house?
Yes, royal icing is a great option for decorating your gingerbread house. It dries hard and is perfect for creating intricate designs.
Personal Thoughts:
Making a DIY wood gingerbread house is a fun and festive activity that’s perfect for the holiday season. It’s a great way to spend time with your loved ones, and the end result is a beautiful and delicious centerpiece for your home. I love that you can customize your gingerbread house with different candy and decorations, making each one unique and personalized. I highly recommend trying out this recipe for yourself!