Save A festive and whimsical dessert platter featuring classic gingerbread man cookies, complemented by a vibrant assortment of sweet treats, dips, and fresh fruit—perfect for holiday gatherings.
This recipe brings back warm memories of holiday seasons filled with laughter and the smell of freshly baked gingerbread.
Ingredients
- Gingerbread Man Cookies: 3 cups all-purpose flour, 3/4 cup brown sugar packed, 1 tablespoon ground ginger, 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 3/4 cup unsalted butter softened, 3/4 cup molasses, 1 large egg
- Royal Icing (for decorating): 2 cups powdered sugar, 1 large egg white (or 2 tablespoons meringue powder + 2 tablespoons water), 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Board Additions: 1 cup chocolate-covered pretzels, 1 cup mini marshmallows, 1/2 cup assorted holiday candies (gumdrops, peppermints, etc), 1 cup fresh strawberries halved, 1 cup red and green grapes, 1/2 cup white chocolate chips, 1/2 cup caramel or chocolate dip
Instructions
- Preheat:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl whisk together flour brown sugar ginger cinnamon cloves baking soda and salt.
- Add Wet Ingredients:
- Add softened butter molasses and egg. Mix until a smooth dough forms. Divide the dough in half flatten into disks wrap in plastic and chill for 30 minutes.
- Roll and Cut:
- Roll out dough on a floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut out gingerbread men using a cookie cutter. Place on prepared baking sheets.
- Bake:
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are firm. Cool completely on wire racks.
- Prepare Icing:
- For royal icing beat powdered sugar egg white (or meringue powder and water) and vanilla until smooth. Transfer to a piping bag and decorate cooled cookies as desired. Let icing set.
- Arrange Board:
- Arrange gingerbread men in the center of a large board or platter. Artfully surround with chocolate pretzels marshmallows candies fruit white chocolate chips and dips.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately or cover loosely and store at room temperature for up to 24 hours.
Save This board is always the centerpiece at holiday gatherings bringing family and friends together to enjoy sweet treats and warm memories.
Notes
Pair with hot cocoa or mulled wine for a cozy holiday treat. Royal icing can be colored with gel food coloring for more decorative options.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls Electric mixer Rolling pin Gingerbread man cookie cutter Baking sheets Parchment paper Wire rack Piping bag (for icing) Large serving board or platter
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten) eggs and dairy (butter). Some candies may contain nuts or soy amp check labels if serving to those with allergies.
Save Enjoy creating your own festive gingerbread man cookie board filled with holiday cheer and sweet delights.
Recipe FAQ
- → What spices are used for the gingerbread men?
Ginger, cinnamon, and cloves create the classic warm and spicy flavor of the gingerbread men.
- → How is the royal icing made?
Royal icing combines powdered sugar, egg whites or meringue powder, and vanilla extract, beaten until smooth for decorating.
- → Can I prepare the dough in advance?
Yes, after mixing, chill the dough wrapped for 30 minutes before rolling and cutting the shapes.
- → What are good board accompaniments?
Chocolate-covered pretzels, mini marshmallows, assorted candies, fresh berries, grapes, white chocolate chips, and dips complement the board.
- → How should I store the assembled board?
Cover loosely and keep at room temperature for up to 24 hours to maintain freshness.
- → Are there options for decorative variations?
Yes, royal icing can be tinted with gel food coloring and sprinkles or candied nuts may be added for variety.