# What You'll Need:
→ Gingerbread House Pieces
01 - 3 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 3/4 cup brown sugar
03 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
04 - 2/3 cup molasses
05 - 1 large egg
06 - 1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger
07 - 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
08 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
09 - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
10 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
→ Royal Icing
11 - 2 large egg whites
12 - 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
13 - 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
→ Decorations & Candy
14 - 1 cup mini marshmallows
15 - 1 cup assorted gumdrops
16 - 1 cup candy canes, crushed or mini whole
17 - 1 cup chocolate buttons or M&Ms
18 - 1 cup peppermint candies
19 - 1 cup jelly beans
20 - 1/2 cup pretzel sticks
21 - Assorted sprinkles
22 - Edible glitter (optional)
→ Extras
23 - 1/2 cup shredded coconut (for snow effect)
24 - 1 cup fresh berries (optional, for color)
# Steps to Follow:
01 - In a large bowl, cream softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Incorporate molasses and egg, mixing thoroughly. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, and salt. Gradually combine dry ingredients with wet to form a dough. Divide dough in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour.
02 - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll chilled dough to a quarter-inch thickness. Using gingerbread house templates or cookie cutters, cut panels for walls, roofs, and doors. Arrange pieces on parchment-lined baking sheets.
03 - Bake panels for 12 to 15 minutes until firm but not browned. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely on racks.
04 - Beat egg whites with cream of tartar until foamy. Gradually add sifted powdered sugar, beating until stiff peaks form. Transfer icing to a piping bag for assembly use.
05 - Arrange all gingerbread pieces, candies, and decorations on a large serving board or platter. Place bowls of royal icing with piping bags or small spatulas nearby for easy access.
06 - Invite participants to assemble mini gingerbread houses, attaching panels with royal icing and decorating with candies and sprinkles as desired.
07 - Sprinkle shredded coconut over the board to simulate snow and optionally add fresh berries for vibrant color. Serve as a festive interactive centerpiece and treat.
