I know you’re probably over Christmas by now, but I couldn’t go without posting my gingerbread house! It was my first time making one, and I had lots of fun. I used recipes and tips from Cookie Craft, and the finished result was so yummy as well as cute. Seriously though, is there such a thing as bad gingerbread?
Disclaimer: some of these pictures are clearly not taken by me! They’re from my boyfriend and his new DSRL |
When looking for templates, I saw this picture and immediately fell in love with the cute little cozy cottage. Here’s the template if you want to save it for next Christmas. Or use it now; gingerbread houses are cute all year round!
Cookie shapes ready for decoration |
As you can see, I used the windowpane technique on the walls (and had a little trouble with it!). Basically you cut out a shape, and fill the hole with crushed hard candies (before baking). In my case, the candy bubbled up too much and got all over the cookie. I think it’s important that you crush the candy very finely, and you probably shouldn’t add too much either; the window ‘glass’ will be flat anyway (also, make sure to spray the paper or it will stick!)
Making a mess is pretty much compulsory |
I made pretty thick icing for keeping the house together (a bit thicker than piping icing). It turned out great, even though I’m sure I got the recipe wrong. The tables in the book are handy, but can be confusing if you check out one ingredient at a time :P
I was afraid the walls would collapse, but the house was pretty sturdy, even after transportation. And the roof wasn’t even attached to the side walls!
Remember that cans are your friends! |
I may write another post with remaining pictures of holiday baking, if you can bear it! And also some news on what the new year may bring! But I’ll give you a preview: I’m leaving for holidays this Sunday. I’ll be spending a few days in Calafate with my family. I’ve never been there, but I can tell you it’s beauuuutiful! You’ll see my pictures soon enough :)
See you next Christmas, Mr. Gingerbread Man! I’m sorry for eating down your house. It was very good though! |
Gingerbread
Royal icing
Note: I made half my icing chocolate by adding some cocoa (you’ll need to add some more water too). Then I turned the remaining white icing into flood icing, and used it to stick sugar to the parchment over the cardboard mat.
This is absolutely gorgeous! Love the stained glass windows and the decorations. I hope 2013 has started with a bang for you! :D
Thank you :) And best wishes to you too!