Save to Pinterest A festive and whimsical dessert platter featuring classic gingerbread man cookies, complemented by a vibrant assortment of sweet treats, dips, and fresh fruit perfect for holiday gatherings.
This recipe always brings back warm holiday memories as I prepare the board with my family, enjoying the smiles that follow every bite.
Ingredients
- Gingerbread Man Cookies: 3 cups all-purpose flour, 3/4 cup brown sugar packed, 1 tablespoon ground ginger, 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 3/4 cup unsalted butter softened, 3/4 cup molasses, 1 large egg
- Royal Icing (for decorating): 2 cups powdered sugar, 1 large egg white (or 2 tablespoons meringue powder + 2 tablespoons water), 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Board Additions: 1 cup chocolate-covered pretzels, 1 cup mini marshmallows, 1/2 cup assorted holiday candies (gumdrops, peppermints, etc.), 1 cup fresh strawberries halved, 1 cup red and green grapes, 1/2 cup white chocolate chips, 1/2 cup caramel or chocolate dip
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, and salt.
- Step 3:
- Add softened butter, molasses, and egg. Mix until a smooth dough forms. Divide the dough in half, flatten into disks, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.
- Step 4:
- Roll out dough on a floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut out gingerbread men using a cookie cutter. Place on prepared baking sheets.
- Step 5:
- Bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are firm. Cool completely on wire racks.
- Step 6:
- For royal icing, beat powdered sugar, egg white (or meringue powder and water), and vanilla until smooth. Transfer to a piping bag and decorate cooled cookies as desired. Let icing set.
- Step 7:
- Arrange gingerbread men in the center of a large board or platter. Artfully surround with chocolate pretzels, marshmallows, candies, fruit, white chocolate chips, and dips.
- Step 8:
- Serve immediately, or cover loosely and store at room temperature for up to 24 hours.
Save to Pinterest This gingerbread man cookie board makes holiday gatherings extra special as everyone gathers around to share laughs and sweet moments.
Notes
Add festive sprinkles candied nuts or your favorite cookies for extra variety. Orange zest can be added to the cookie dough for a citrusy twist. Pair with hot cocoa or mulled wine for a cozy holiday treat.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, Electric mixer, Rolling pin, Gingerbread man cookie cutter, Baking sheets, Parchment paper, Wire rack, Piping bag (for icing), Large serving board or platter
Nutritional Information
Calories 320, Total Fat 9 g, Carbohydrates 57 g, Protein 3 g (per serving)
Save to Pinterest This gingerbread man cookie board combines tradition and creativity for a festive holiday centerpiece.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What spices define the gingerbread men on this board?
Ground ginger, cinnamon, and cloves create the traditional warm, aromatic spice profile of these gingerbread men.
- → How is the royal icing made for decoration?
Royal icing is made by whisking powdered sugar with egg white or meringue powder, plus vanilla extract, to a smooth, pipeable consistency.
- → What toppings accompany the gingerbread men on the board?
The board features chocolate-covered pretzels, mini marshmallows, assorted holiday candies, fresh strawberries, grapes, white chocolate chips, and caramel or chocolate dips.
- → How long should the dough be chilled before rolling?
The dough should chill for 30 minutes to firm up, making it easier to roll and cut into shapes.
- → Can this board be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, decorated gingerbread men and board elements can be assembled and stored loosely covered at room temperature for up to 24 hours.
- → What tools are essential to assemble this board?
Key tools include mixing bowls, electric mixer, rolling pin, gingerbread man cutter, baking sheets, parchment paper, wire rack, piping bag, and a large serving platter.