Building a Gingerbread House

How to do it

1. Find a template you like and print it out.
2. Cut out the pieces from the template using scissors or a scalpel for precision.
3. Trim the baking paper so it doesn’t curl at the edges.
4. Roll out the gingerbread dough thinly, about 1 mm, on baking paper.
5. Use a sharp knife or scalpel to cut out the shapes, ensuring enough space between them to avoid merging during baking.
6. Carefully transfer the baking paper with the shapes onto a baking tray.
7. Bake in the middle of the oven at 175°C for about 10 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
8. Carefully transfer the baking paper with the pieces to a cooling rack.
9. Fine details are easier to decorate while the pieces are flat before assembling the house.
10. Use thick royal icing made with egg whites to glue the pieces together.
11. Make a piping bag by cutting a small hole in the corner of a small plastic bag or use a piping bag for more precision.
12. Support the walls and roof with objects (e.g., glasses or bowls) while they set to ensure stability.
13. For multi-level gingerbread houses, assemble the individual sections before combining them.
14. Attach the base to a board or tray for a solid structure.
15. Let the gingerbread house stand for at least a few hours, preferably overnight, before decorating to ensure the icing has set properly and the structure is stable.