Save to Pinterest A whimsical, festive dessert board featuring homemade gingerbread cookies, spiced dips, candies, and decorative treats arranged to resemble a charming holiday village.
This dessert spread has become a holiday tradition in my family, bringing everyone together to decorate and enjoy.
Ingredients
- Gingerbread Cookies: 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour, 3/4 cup (150 g) brown sugar, 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter softened, 1/2 cup (125 ml) molasses, 1 large egg, 1 1/2 tsp ground ginger, 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/2 tsp ground cloves, 1/2 tsp nutmeg, 1 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt
- Royal Icing: 2 cups (250 g) powdered sugar, 1 large egg white (or 2 tbsp aquafaba for egg-free), 1/2 tsp lemon juice, Food coloring (optional)
- Dips & Spreads: 1 cup (240 g) vanilla yogurt, 2 tbsp honey, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/2 cup (120 g) chocolate hazelnut spread
- Assorted Sweets & Decorations: 1 cup (100 g) mini marshmallows, 1/2 cup (50 g) assorted gumdrops, 1/2 cup (50 g) chocolate buttons or coins, 1/2 cup (50 g) peppermint candies, 1/2 cup (50 g) pretzel sticks, 1/2 cup (50 g) candy canes broken into small pieces
Instructions
- Prepare the gingerbread dough:
- In a large bowl cream butter and brown sugar until fluffy Beat in molasses and egg In a separate bowl whisk flour spices baking soda and salt Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture mixing until combined Divide dough in half wrap in plastic and chill for 30 minutes
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) Roll dough out to 1/4-inch thickness on a lightly floured surface Cut into house tree star or village shapes using cookie cutters Place on baking sheets lined with parchment
- Bake:
- Bake for 10 12 minutes until edges are set Cool completely on wire racks
- Make the royal icing:
- Beat powdered sugar egg white (or aquafaba) and lemon juice until smooth Divide and tint with food coloring if desired Transfer to piping bags
- Decorate cookies:
- Decorate cooled cookies as village houses and trees using icing and candies Let icing set
- Prepare yogurt dip:
- Mix yogurt honey and cinnamon in a small bowl
- Assemble board:
- Arrange gingerbread cookies dips and assorted sweets on a large board or platter building a festive village scene Use pretzel sticks and marshmallows for fencing and snow and candies for decorations
Save to Pinterest Sharing this gingerbread village with family has created cherished holiday memories and joyful moments.
Required Tools
Electric mixer Mixing bowls Rolling pin Cookie cutters (village shapes) Baking sheets Cooling rack Parchment paper Piping bags
Allergen Information
Contains gluten (wheat) eggs dairy and nuts (if using chocolate hazelnut spread) For egg-free use aquafaba in royal icing For nut-free choose chocolate spread without nuts Always check labels on candies for allergens
Nutritional Information
Calories 390 Total Fat 11 g Carbohydrates 68 g Protein 5 g per serving
Save to Pinterest This gingerbread village dessert spread makes holiday celebrations magical and memorable.
Questions & Answers
- → How do I keep gingerbread cookies soft for decorating?
To maintain softness, avoid overbaking and store the cookies in an airtight container with a slice of bread to help retain moisture.
- → Can the royal icing be made without eggs?
Yes, aquafaba can replace egg whites to create a vegan-friendly royal icing that still hardens well for decorating.
- → What are good alternatives to the chocolate hazelnut spread?
Try almond butter, peanut butter, or fruit preserves to add variety and accommodate nut allergies.
- → How should I arrange the board for the best presentation?
Place decorated gingerbread houses centrally, surround with dips in small bowls, and scatter candies and pretzels to mimic village decorations and fences.
- → What beverages pair well with this dessert spread?
Serve with hot chocolate, spiced tea, or warm apple cider to complement the spiced flavors and festive atmosphere.