Festive Gingerbread House Decor (Printable)
Colorful accents and royal icing create festive charms for holiday gingerbread houses.
# What You'll Need:
→ Royal Icing
01 - 2 large egg whites or 4 tablespoons pasteurized liquid egg whites
02 - 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
03 - 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
→ Candies & Sweets
04 - 1/2 cup gumdrops
05 - 1/2 cup mini candy-coated chocolates (e.g., M&Ms)
06 - 1/2 cup peppermint candies, crushed or whole
07 - 1/4 cup jelly beans
08 - 1/4 cup mini marshmallows
09 - 1/4 cup licorice laces or ropes
10 - 1/4 cup colored sugar sprinkles
11 - 1/4 cup nonpareils or edible pearls
→ Additional Decorations
12 - Assorted wafer cookies (for roof tiles, fences, or doors)
13 - Pretzel sticks (for logs or window frames)
14 - Shredded coconut (for snow effect)
15 - Edible glitter (optional)
# How-to Steps:
01 - In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with lemon juice until frothy. Gradually add powdered sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form and the mixture is thick and glossy. Transfer to a piping bag or resealable plastic bag with a small cut corner.
02 - Use royal icing as adhesive to assemble the walls and roof according to your gingerbread house kit or recipe instructions. Allow the structure to set for at least 15 minutes before proceeding.
03 - Attach candies, cookies, and other edible decorations to the roof, windows, doors, and yard using the royal icing. Incorporate colored sugar sprinkles, nonpareils, and edible glitter for added visual appeal.
04 - Sprinkle shredded coconut over the roof and base while the icing remains wet to emulate snow.
05 - Allow all decorations to dry and harden completely for at least one hour before displaying or serving.
# Expert Pointers:
01 -
- It's like sharing a secret: a simple royal icing that doubles as glue and decoration.
- The endless options to customize each house make every creation uniquely yours and unforgettable.
02 -
- Royal icing can dry out fast; cover it with a damp cloth while working to keep it smooth.
- Using tweezers for tiny candies is a game changer—you'll place each piece with confidence and precision.
03 -
- Always sift powdered sugar to avoid clumps that can ruin your royal icing texture.
- The secret to strong bonds is patience; let each section dry fully before moving to the next.