Introduction
The holidays are a time for festive treats and what could be more festive than a towering gingerbread Eiffel Tower? This recipe is not only delicious but also a fun activity to do with family and friends. Get ready to construct your own edible landmark with this easy-to-follow recipe.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract. Beat until well combined.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Divide the dough into four equal pieces and wrap each in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out one of the dough pieces on a lightly floured surface to 1/4 inch thickness. Use a knife or cookie cutter to cut out the shapes needed for the Eiffel Tower. Repeat with the remaining dough.
- Bake the gingerbread pieces for 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool completely on a wire rack.
- In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and milk to make icing.
- Assemble the Eiffel Tower by using the icing to attach the gingerbread pieces together. Start with the base and work your way up, allowing the icing to dry before continuing to the next level.
- Decorate the Eiffel Tower with additional icing, candy, and sprinkles as desired.
- Serve and enjoy your delicious and festive gingerbread Eiffel Tower!
Nutritional Information
Serving size: 1 slice (assuming 16 servings)
- Calories: 280
- Total Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 120mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 44g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 25g
- Protein: 3g
Cooking Time
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 8-10 minutes per batch
Refrigeration time: 1 hour or overnight
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Electric mixer
- Plastic wrap
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin
- Knife or cookie cutter
- Wire rack
- Small bowl for icing
- Whisk
Serving Suggestions
Serve the gingerbread Eiffel Tower as a centerpiece at a holiday party or as a festive dessert for Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. It pairs well with a cup of hot cocoa or a glass of milk.
Variations and Substitutions
- To make a smaller Eiffel Tower, simply use less dough and adjust the baking time accordingly.
- For a chocolate twist, replace 1/4 cup of the flour with unsweetened cocoa powder.
- Try adding different spices such as cloves or allspice for a unique flavor.
- If you don’t have molasses, you can substitute with honey or maple syrup.
Storage
Store the gingerbread Eiffel Tower in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Tips and Notes
- Make sure to refrigerate the dough before rolling it out to prevent it from sticking to the surface.
- Allow the icing to dry completely before adding additional layers or decorations.
- If the icing is too thick, add a little more milk. If it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the gingerbread dough?
Yes, the dough can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.
Can I use royal icing instead of powdered sugar icing?
Absolutely! Royal icing is a great alternative and can be used to create intricate designs and details.
Personal Thoughts
This gingerbread Eiffel Tower is not only a delicious treat but also a fun activity to do with family and friends during the holiday season. It’s a great way to get into the festive spirit and create something memorable together. The gingerbread has the perfect amount of spice and pairs well with the sweet icing and decorative candies. Give it a try and enjoy your very own edible landmark!