The art of building a gingerbread house is a beloved holiday tradition for many. While royal icing is the traditional “glue” that holds these edible structures together, it’s not the only option. In fact, many people find royal icing too sweet or too finicky to work with. If you’re looking for alternatives to royal icing for your gingerbread house, you’re in luck. In this article, we’ll explore some tasty and creative options to help you build a stunning and delicious gingerbread house.
Understanding Royal Icing
Before we dive into the alternatives, let’s take a brief look at what royal icing is and why it’s traditionally used on gingerbread houses. Royal icing is a type of icing made from powdered sugar and egg whites or meringue powder. It’s a popular choice for decorating gingerbread houses because it dries hard, making it ideal for creating intricate designs and holding the house’s structure together.
However, royal icing can be a bit of a challenge to work with. It’s sensitive to temperature and humidity, which can cause it to become too thin or too thick. Additionally, some people find the taste of royal icing too sweet or overpowering.
Alternatives to Royal Icing
If you’re looking for a break from traditional royal icing, there are several alternatives you can try. Here are a few options:
Melted Chocolate
Melted chocolate is a delicious and easy-to-use alternative to royal icing. It’s perfect for creating a cohesive look on your gingerbread house, and it’s a great option if you’re short on time. Simply melt some chocolate chips or chocolate bars in a double boiler or in the microwave, and use it to “glue” your gingerbread pieces together.
One of the benefits of using melted chocolate is that it’s incredibly easy to work with. It’s also a great option if you’re making a gingerbread house with kids, as it’s a fun and tasty way to get them involved in the process.
However, keep in mind that melted chocolate can be a bit messy, and it may not hold the structure of your gingerbread house together as well as royal icing. It’s also important to note that melted chocolate can be quite rich, so it’s best to use it sparingly.
Marshmallow Creme
Marshmallow creme is another popular alternative to royal icing. It’s a sweet and sticky substance that’s perfect for holding gingerbread pieces together. It’s also a great option if you’re looking for a lighter, fluffier texture on your gingerbread house.
To use marshmallow creme, simply spread a small amount onto the gingerbread pieces and press them together. You can also use marshmallow creme to create intricate designs and patterns on your gingerbread house.
One of the benefits of using marshmallow creme is that it’s incredibly easy to work with. It’s also a great option if you’re making a gingerbread house with kids, as it’s a fun and tasty way to get them involved in the process.
However, keep in mind that marshmallow creme can be a bit too sticky, so it’s best to use it sparingly. It’s also important to note that marshmallow creme may not hold the structure of your gingerbread house together as well as royal icing.
Peanut Butter
Peanut butter is a tasty and unexpected alternative to royal icing. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a nutty flavor on your gingerbread house, and it’s also a good choice if you’re making a gingerbread house with kids.
To use peanut butter, simply spread a small amount onto the gingerbread pieces and press them together. You can also use peanut butter to create intricate designs and patterns on your gingerbread house.
One of the benefits of using peanut butter is that it’s incredibly easy to work with. It’s also a great option if you’re looking for a nutty flavor on your gingerbread house.
However, keep in mind that peanut butter can be a bit too rich, so it’s best to use it sparingly. It’s also important to note that peanut butter may not hold the structure of your gingerbread house together as well as royal icing.
Cream Cheese Frosting
Cream cheese frosting is a tangy and delicious alternative to royal icing. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a creamy texture on your gingerbread house, and it’s also a good choice if you’re making a gingerbread house with kids.
To use cream cheese frosting, simply spread a small amount onto the gingerbread pieces and press them together. You can also use cream cheese frosting to create intricate designs and patterns on your gingerbread house.
One of the benefits of using cream cheese frosting is that it’s incredibly easy to work with. It’s also a great option if you’re looking for a tangy flavor on your gingerbread house.
However, keep in mind that cream cheese frosting can be a bit too rich, so it’s best to use it sparingly. It’s also important to note that cream cheese frosting may not hold the structure of your gingerbread house together as well as royal icing.
Tips and Tricks for Working with Alternatives to Royal Icing
While alternatives to royal icing can be a fun and delicious way to build a gingerbread house, they can also be a bit tricky to work with. Here are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind:
Use the Right Consistency
When working with alternatives to royal icing, it’s essential to use the right consistency. If the substance is too thin, it may not hold the structure of your gingerbread house together. On the other hand, if it’s too thick, it may be difficult to work with.
To achieve the right consistency, try adding a small amount of liquid or powdered sugar to the substance. You can also try heating or cooling the substance to achieve the right consistency.
Work in Small Sections
When building a gingerbread house, it’s essential to work in small sections. This will help you avoid making a mess and ensure that your gingerbread house turns out evenly.
To work in small sections, try building one wall of the house at a time. Use a small amount of the alternative substance to hold the gingerbread pieces together, and then move on to the next section.
Use a Turntable
A turntable can be a lifesaver when building a gingerbread house. It allows you to easily access all sides of the house and ensures that your design is even and symmetrical.
To use a turntable, simply place your gingerbread house on the turntable and spin it as needed. This will help you achieve a professional-looking design and ensure that your gingerbread house turns out evenly.
Conclusion
Building a gingerbread house is a fun and delicious holiday tradition. While royal icing is the traditional “glue” that holds these edible structures together, it’s not the only option. In this article, we’ve explored some tasty and creative alternatives to royal icing, including melted chocolate, marshmallow creme, peanut butter, and cream cheese frosting.
By using these alternatives and following a few simple tips and tricks, you can create a stunning and delicious gingerbread house that’s sure to impress. So why not try something new this holiday season? Break free from royal icing and explore the world of alternatives. Your taste buds – and your gingerbread house – will thank you.
| Alternative to Royal Icing | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Melted Chocolate | Easy to work with, delicious, great for kids | Can be messy, may not hold structure together as well as royal icing |
| Marshmallow Creme | Easy to work with, sweet and sticky, great for kids | Can be too sticky, may not hold structure together as well as royal icing |
| Peanut Butter | Tasty, easy to work with, great for kids | Can be too rich, may not hold structure together as well as royal icing |
| Cream Cheese Frosting | Tangy and delicious, easy to work with, great for kids | Can be too rich, may not hold structure together as well as royal icing |
By considering these alternatives and their pros and cons, you can make an informed decision about which one to use for your gingerbread house. Happy building!
What are some popular alternatives to royal icing for gingerbread houses?
If you’re looking for alternatives to royal icing, there are several options you can consider. One popular choice is melted chocolate. You can melt white, milk, or dark chocolate and use it to “glue” your gingerbread pieces together. Another option is cream cheese frosting, which is a tangy and creamy alternative to royal icing.
When using melted chocolate or cream cheese frosting, keep in mind that they may not be as sturdy as royal icing. You may need to use toothpicks or other supports to hold your gingerbread pieces together while the chocolate or frosting sets. However, the end result can be well worth the extra effort, as these alternatives can add a rich and delicious flavor to your gingerbread house.
How do I make a cream cheese frosting for my gingerbread house?
To make a cream cheese frosting for your gingerbread house, you’ll need a block of cream cheese, some butter, and a bit of powdered sugar. Simply beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth, then gradually add the powdered sugar until you reach the desired consistency. You can also add a bit of vanilla extract or other flavorings to give your frosting a unique taste.
When using cream cheese frosting on your gingerbread house, be sure to work quickly, as it can start to soften and become difficult to work with if it gets too warm. You may also want to refrigerate your gingerbread house for a bit after assembling it to allow the frosting to set. This will help it hold its shape and prevent it from becoming too messy.
Can I use store-bought frosting for my gingerbread house?
Yes, you can definitely use store-bought frosting for your gingerbread house. In fact, many people prefer to use store-bought frosting because it’s quick and easy to use. Simply choose a frosting that’s suitable for decorating, such as a buttercream or cream cheese frosting, and follow the instructions on the package for using it.
When using store-bought frosting, keep in mind that it may not be as sturdy as royal icing or some other alternatives. You may need to use toothpicks or other supports to hold your gingerbread pieces together while the frosting sets. However, store-bought frosting can still be a great option if you’re short on time or not feeling up to making your own frosting from scratch.
How do I make a marshmallow creme frosting for my gingerbread house?
To make a marshmallow creme frosting for your gingerbread house, you’ll need a jar of marshmallow creme and some powdered sugar. Simply beat the marshmallow creme until it’s smooth, then gradually add the powdered sugar until you reach the desired consistency. You can also add a bit of vanilla extract or other flavorings to give your frosting a unique taste.
When using marshmallow creme frosting on your gingerbread house, be sure to work quickly, as it can start to soften and become difficult to work with if it gets too warm. You may also want to refrigerate your gingerbread house for a bit after assembling it to allow the frosting to set. This will help it hold its shape and prevent it from becoming too messy.
Can I use peanut butter as a frosting for my gingerbread house?
Yes, you can definitely use peanut butter as a frosting for your gingerbread house. In fact, peanut butter can be a delicious and unique alternative to traditional frostings. Simply spread a layer of peanut butter on each gingerbread piece before assembling your house, or use it as a “glue” to hold your pieces together.
When using peanut butter as a frosting, keep in mind that it can be quite rich and overpowering. You may want to balance it out with some other flavors, such as honey or powdered sugar. You’ll also want to be sure to use a creamy peanut butter, as crunchy peanut butter can be difficult to work with.
How do I make a powdered sugar glaze for my gingerbread house?
To make a powdered sugar glaze for your gingerbread house, you’ll need some powdered sugar and a bit of milk or water. Simply whisk the powdered sugar and milk together until smooth, then adjust the consistency as needed. You can also add a bit of vanilla extract or other flavorings to give your glaze a unique taste.
When using a powdered sugar glaze on your gingerbread house, be sure to work quickly, as it can start to set and become difficult to work with if it gets too thick. You may also want to refrigerate your gingerbread house for a bit after glazing it to allow the glaze to set. This will help it hold its shape and prevent it from becoming too messy.
Can I use Nutella as a frosting for my gingerbread house?
Yes, you can definitely use Nutella as a frosting for your gingerbread house. In fact, Nutella can be a delicious and unique alternative to traditional frostings. Simply spread a layer of Nutella on each gingerbread piece before assembling your house, or use it as a “glue” to hold your pieces together.
When using Nutella as a frosting, keep in mind that it can be quite rich and overpowering. You may want to balance it out with some other flavors, such as powdered sugar or whipped cream. You’ll also want to be sure to use a high-quality Nutella, as some brands can be quite oily and difficult to work with.