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Perfect Haunted House Gingerbread Kits for Easy Halloween Fun

haunted house gingerbread kits - featured image

A fun and creative Halloween activity that combines the nostalgia of warm gingerbread with spooky decorating possibilities, perfect for all ages.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 2 teaspoons ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup (150g) brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) molasses
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 cups (360g) powdered sugar
  • 2 large egg whites
  • 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
  • Food coloring (optional)
  • Assorted candies (gummy worms, candy corn, licorice)
  • Sprinkles and edible glitter
  • Mini marshmallows

Instructions

  1. Make the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, spices, and salt. In another bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar until creamy. Add the molasses, egg, and vanilla and mix until combined. Slowly add the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
  2. Chill the Dough: Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight).
  3. Preheat and Roll: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness.
  4. Cut Shapes: Use cookie cutters or a template to cut out your haunted house pieces (walls, roof, doors, etc.). Transfer them to parchment-lined baking sheets.
  5. Bake: Bake for 8-10 minutes until golden and firm. Let the pieces cool completely before assembling.
  6. Prepare Royal Icing: Beat the powdered sugar, egg whites, and cream of tartar until thick and glossy. Divide into bowls and add food coloring if desired.
  7. Assemble the House: Use royal icing as ‘glue’ to stick the walls together. Let each piece set before adding the roof.
  8. Decorate: Use candies, sprinkles, and marshmallows to bring your haunted house to life. Get creative with spooky designs!

Notes

[‘Chill the dough for easier handling and better shape retention during baking.’, ‘Use a haunted house template for precise fitting pieces.’, ‘Let royal icing dry completely between steps to avoid collapsing.’, ‘Decorating imperfections add character to your creation.’, ‘Consider making this a two-day project for less stress.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: Halloween, Gingerbread, Haunted House, Kid-Friendly, Spooky, Creative Activity