gingerbread man cookie icing recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
gingerbread man cookie icing recipe
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best gingerbread man cookie icing recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite gingerbread man cookie icing recipe. This sweet and spicy icing is a game-changer for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday party or just a Tuesday. I first discovered this recipe when I was looking for a unique twist on traditional cookies.

The combination of the soft, chewy cookie and the tangy icing is absolutely divine. My kids love helping me make the icing from scratch, and it’s become a fun family activity that we look forward to every year. Not only is this icing delicious, but it’s also incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.

You can adjust the level of spiciness to your liking by adding more or less ginger powder. I like to make a double batch so we can have some on hand for impromptu cookie parties or as a special treat after dinner. The best part is that this icing is made with simple ingredients like powdered sugar, butter, and ginger powder, making it a healthier alternative to store-bought frosting.

My family and I have been enjoying this recipe for years, and I’m sure you’ll love it just as much as we do. The aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house is one of my favorite smells, and this icing takes it to the next level. It’s perfect for dunking into hot chocolate or coffee on chilly winter mornings.

Whether you’re looking for a fun project to do with your kids or just a delicious way to spice up your cookie game, this gingerbread man cookie icing recipe is sure to become a new favorite.

Gingerbread Man Cookie Icing

Gingerbread Man Cookie Icing

4.9 from 1957 votes

A simple and versatile icing for decorating gingerbread men cookies. This icing sets hard with a glossy finish, perfect for adding details and colors.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time10 minutes
Servings: 24 cookiesCuisine: InternationalCalories: 60 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Icing

2 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons meringue powder
3 tablespoons warm water, plus more as needed
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Gel food coloring (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a clean, dry mixing bowl, combine the powdered sugar and meringue powder.
2Add 3 tablespoons of warm water and the vanilla extract.
3Beat the mixture on low speed until the ingredients are combined, then increase to medium-high speed and beat for 4 to 5 minutes.
4The icing should be thick, glossy, and hold a stiff peak when you lift the beater.
5If the icing is too thick, add water 1 teaspoon at a time and beat for 30 seconds after each addition until it reaches a pipeable consistency.
6For outlining, the icing should hold a firm shape; for flooding, thin it with additional water until it flows smoothly and levels out in 10 to 15 seconds.
7Divide the icing into separate bowls if using multiple colors.
8Add gel food coloring a drop at a time and stir until the desired shade is achieved.
9Transfer each color to a piping bag fitted with a small round tip or a squeeze bottle.
10Pipe outlines around the edges of the cooled gingerbread cookies.
11Allow the outlines to set for 5 to 10 minutes before filling in the centers with a thinner flooding icing.
12Let the decorated cookies sit at room temperature for 2 to 4 hours until the icing is completely hard and dry.

🔧Equipment

Stand mixer or hand mixer
Mixing bowl
Rubber spatula
Piping bags or squeeze bottles
Small round piping tip (e.g., Wilton #2 or #3)

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 60 kcal🧈Total Fat: 0g💛Saturated Fat: 0g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 5mg🌾Total Carbs: 15g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 14g🥩Protein: 0g

📝Notes

For best results, use fresh meringue powder and ensure all equipment is grease-free. Store decorated cookies in a single layer in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

Watch Video Of How Gingerbread Man Cookie Icing Works

This gingerbread man cookie icing recipe has become a staple in our household, and I’m sure it will become one in yours too. The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.

You can store any leftover icing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months. When reheating frozen icing, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator or reheat gently over low heat on the stovetop until smooth and spreadable.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Gingerbread Man Cookie Icing

1.

Q: What type of cookies work best with this icing?
A: This icing pairs perfectly with soft-baked cookies like gingerbread men, sugar cookies, or even snickerdoodles.

2.

Q: Can I make this icing ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the icing up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

3.

Q: How do I adjust the level of spiciness in the icing?
A: Simply add more or less ginger powder to taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, start with 1/4 teaspoon and add more as needed.

4.

Q: Can I use this icing on other types of baked goods?
A: Absolutely! This icing would be delicious on cinnamon rolls, doughnuts, or even as a glaze for fruit tarts.

5.

Q: Is this icing suitable for vegetarians and vegans?
A: Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly; however, if you’re looking for a vegan version, simply substitute the butter with a vegan butter substitute.

Similar Posts