# What You'll Need:
→ Gingerbread Dough
01 - 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 teaspoon baking soda
03 - 2 teaspoons ground ginger
04 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
05 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
06 - 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
07 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
08 - 9 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
09 - 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
10 - 1 large egg
11 - 1/2 cup molasses or dark treacle
12 - 2 tablespoons honey
→ Royal Icing
13 - 2 large egg whites
14 - 3 1/4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
15 - 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
16 - Food coloring (optional)
→ Decorations
17 - Assorted candies (gumdrops, candy canes, chocolate buttons, licorice, sprinkles)
18 - Shredded coconut or powdered sugar for snow effect
19 - Edible silver pearls (optional)
# Method:
01 - Whisk together flour, baking soda, ground spices, and salt in a bowl. In a separate large bowl, cream butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, molasses, and honey. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients until a uniform dough forms. Divide dough into two disks, wrap tightly, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
02 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Roll dough between parchment paper to a 1/5 inch thickness. Cut shapes for walls, roof, door, and chimney using templates. Place on lined baking sheets and bake 12 to 15 minutes until firm and golden. Cool completely on wire racks.
03 - Beat egg whites until foamy. Gradually add sifted powdered sugar and cream of tartar, beating until stiff peaks form. Divide and color with food coloring if desired. Cover with a damp cloth to prevent drying.
04 - Pipe thick lines of royal icing along panel edges and attach to a sturdy base. Hold panels temporarily until set, then allow to dry for 30 minutes before affixing roof panels with icing and supports. Let fully set.
05 - Use royal icing to adhere candies, create icicles, and simulate snow effects with shredded coconut or powdered sugar. Allow to dry thoroughly before handling or moving the house.
