Printable Gingerbread House Pattern

Hey there, fellow sweet tooths! Have I got a treat for you - a delicious gingerbread recipe and a printable house template to make your baking adventure so much more fun! And don’t worry, I won’t judge if you sneak a few bites of dough along the way. We all do it!

First, the Gingerbread

Let’s start with everyone’s favorite part - the gingerbread dough! Here’s what you’ll need:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 tablespoon ground ginger
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 12 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 3/4 cup molasses
• 2 tablespoons milk

Got it all? Great! Let’s get started:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, spices, and salt. Set aside.
2. In a large bowl (or in the bowl of a stand mixer), beat the butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the molasses and milk, and beat until well combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in two additions, mixing until just combined.
5. Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
6. When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
8. Use your printable house template to cut out your gingerbread house pieces.
9. Transfer the pieces to your prepared baking sheet, and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned.
10. Repeat with the second disc of dough, making sure to cut out extra shapes for decorations!

Next, the Icing

Now it’s time to make your gingerbread house look as delicious as it tastes! Here’s what you’ll need for the icing:

• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 3 tablespoons meringue powder
• 5-6 tablespoons warm water

Here’s how to make it:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and meringue powder.
2. Add the warm water, a tablespoon at a time, until the icing is thick and creamy but still soft enough to pipe.
3. Transfer the icing to a piping bag fitted with a small round tip.

Lastly, Decorating!

Now it’s time for the real fun - decorating your gingerbread house! Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Use your icing to “glue” the walls and roof of your house together.
• Add a chimney made out of mini candy canes, or use licorice for a more rustic look.
• Create a snowy scene with plenty of white icing “snow” and a dusting of powdered sugar.
• Add colorful candies, sprinkles, and jellies to create a festive, whimsical touch.

And there you have it - your very own homemade gingerbread house! Now sit back, admire your handiwork, and enjoy a well-earned treat.

Happy baking!