This past weekend I hosted a gingerbread house party for family. Having a new grandbaby 7 months ago prompted me to start some new traditions.
It is such a great experience chatting over hot cocoa, tea and coffee with family and friends. Sometimes we even get a bit competitive. My guests were so happy leaving with their little beautifully decorated houses.
I can't wait til he gets old enough to decorate his own..... but for now he can just be an adorable little helper.
Little cookie man
You can buy pre made houses, make your own from scratch, or even use graham crackers for mini houses.
(over 100 years old)
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup butter and lard mixed
1 1/2 teaspoons soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon ginger
1 egg
1 cup Brer Rabbit Molasses
2 1/2 cups sifted flour
1/2 teaspoon cloves
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup hot water
Cream shortening and sugar. Add beaten egg, molasses, then dry ingredients which have been sifted together. Add hot water last and beat until smooth. Roll out on a floured surface, cut in desired shapes. Bake in greased shallow pan or cookie sheet 40-45 minutes in moderate oven (350° F.). Makes 1 large house or 2 smaller houses plus a couple gingerbread men. Good old-fashioned gingerbread.
Gingerbread House Royal Icing Adhesive
3 Tablespoons meringue powder (available wherever cake decorating supplies are sold , even Walmart )
4 cups powdered sugar
4-6 Tablespoons cold water
A couple days before my party I assembled the houses to ensure they would be sturdy and dry for my guests. The last thing I wanted was for a house to break apart on someone.
Everyone looking very serious here....
Sometimes we just need a nap.....
The teamwork is my favorite part.
Admiring their masterpiece....
I encourage everyone to try your hand at your own party. It is sooooo much fun. Crank up your favorite Christmas music, and throw a bunch of candy and sprinkles on the table...Let the fun begin!!!
Now to get all that frosting off of everything!!!