Gingerbread cookies and houses are one of the many symbols of the holiday season, alongside Christmas trees and twinkling lights. In fact, few confections symbolize the holidays more so than gingerbread.
Many a child - or a child at heart - has spent hours carefully trying to create decorative gingerbread houses. Although gingerbread recipes span various cultures, gingerbread houses originated in 16th-century Germany. The fairy tale "Hansel and Gretel" helped solidify the popularity of gingerbread, which became part of Christmas traditions.
Even though gingerbread houses can be fun to make, there is no denying it can be exacting work, especially for those who strive for perfection. Prepackaged kits attempt to take some of the guesswork out of the equation, but those who are crafting from scratch can employ several tips as they build their gingerbread houses.
It is important to go for form and not flavor. Few gingerbread houses ever get eaten, so focus on finding a dough that will bake up rock hard as opposed to one that tastes good.
The right icing texture is also important. Pastry artist Catherine Beddall says royal icing is the preferred "glue" to adhere gingerbread pieces. Beddall says icing should be thick like peanut butter and not runny.
The gingerbread dough should not be rolled out too thin or it may become brittle after being cooked. Shapes should always be cut out before the gingerbread is baked. Baked pieces should be allowed to sit overnight to cool completely before using them to build.
Patience is key. The icing should be allowed to dry for at least a couple of hours after adhering each piece and before moving and handling the house. Working in stages allows individual items to be decorated and dried. The walls can be put together, followed by the roof pieces.
Children likely will need help. Children may not have the patience or steadiness to handle complete gingerbread construction. They can decorate the separate pieces of the house while the components are lying flat, which is easier for children. Adults can do the main assembly later on.
It is recommended that a template be utilized. Free-handing may not be easy. Templates can be made using cardboard or poster board for various gingerbread pieces.
One of the most important tips is to have fun. Individuals should not take making a gingerbread house too seriously as a novice. Rather, enjoy the experience and the centuries-old tradition.
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