Cristmass Gingerbread and Pretzel Houses Ideas
Gingerbread Dough
STEPS
1. Create cardboard templates using the shapes shown enlarge 400 percent. Cut 2 of each shape, adding door and windows to the sides and ends.
2. Roll out cold dough between parchment paper. With templates as a guide, cut out shapes with a small knife. Transfer with a spatula to a sheet pan.
3. After baking, cool pieces completely to prevent cracking or breaking. Before assembly, use a microplane to shave any edges that aren’t uniform.
4. Before beginning to decorate, separate each type of candy into its own small bowl. To store, place the house in a covered box in a cool, dry spot.
TIPS FOR SUCCESS
The dough must be kept cool and firm so the cutout pieces will retain their shapes. For best results, chill dough thoroughly before rolling it out. Place rolled dough, board and all, in the refrigerator and chill. Cut out shapes and transfer, while still chilled, to a heavy baking sheet. Never use a warped pan.