icing for gingerbread man recipe

The Best icing for gingerbread man recipe

I’m so excited to share this icing for gingerbread man recipe with you. As a mom of three, I’ve always been on the lookout for fun and easy recipes that my kids will love, and this one never fails. It’s a classic recipe that’s been passed down through generations, and it’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday gathering or just a quick snack.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients. My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and this recipe is always a hit with them.

We’ve made it countless times over the years, and it never gets old. The combination of sweet icing and spicy gingerbread is just irresistible. Plus, it’s a great way to get the kids involved in cooking and baking.

I’ve even started making it with my own kids now that they’re old enough to help in the kitchen. They love being able to create their own gingerbread men and decorate them with all sorts of toppings. It’s a great way to spend quality time together as a family and create memories that will last a lifetime.

But what really sets this recipe apart is the health benefits it provides. Unlike many baked goods that are loaded with sugar and unhealthy fats, this icing is made with natural ingredients like honey and cream cheese. It’s also relatively low in calories, making it a great option for those watching their diet.

And let’s not forget the fun factor – who doesn’t love making their own gingerbread men? It’s a great activity for kids (and adults!) who love getting creative in the kitchen.

Royal Icing for Gingerbread Men

4.9 from 1734 votes

A classic royal icing that hardens to a glossy finish, perfect for decorating gingerbread men. This icing pipes cleanly and sets firmly, allowing for detailed designs and colorful accents.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time10 mins
Servings: 1 cupCuisine: InternationalCalories: 480 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Icing

2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
2 large egg whites (or 3 tablespoons meringue powder + 1/4 cup water)
1 teaspoon lemon juice or vanilla extract
Food coloring (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a mixing bowl, combine the sifted powdered sugar and egg whites (or meringue powder mixture).
2Beat on low speed until the sugar is incorporated, then increase to medium-high and beat for 3 to 4 minutes until the icing is thick, glossy, and forms stiff peaks.
3Add the lemon juice or vanilla extract and beat for another 30 seconds to combine.
4If using food coloring, divide the icing into separate bowls and stir in the desired colors until evenly blended.
5Transfer the icing to piping bags or zip-top bags and snip a small corner.
6Pipe outlines and details onto cooled gingerbread men, then fill in larger areas by thinning the icing with a few drops of water if needed.
7Allow the icing to set at room temperature for 2 to 3 hours until completely hard.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Electric mixer or whisk
Piping bags or zip-top bags
Scissors
Spatula

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 480 kcal🧈Total Fat: 0g💛Saturated Fat: 0g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 55mg🌾Total Carbs: 120g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 118g🥩Protein: 4g

📝Notes

For a vegan version, use aquafaba (chickpea liquid) instead of egg whites. Keep the icing covered with a damp cloth while piping to prevent it from drying out.

Watch Video Of How Royal Icing for Gingerbread Men Works

This icing recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a fun activity for the kids or just want something easy and delicious to serve at your next family gathering.

One thing that’s always impressed me about this recipe is how well it stores – whether you’re making it ahead of time or storing leftovers in an airtight container.

And let’s not forget about reheating – simply place the leftover icing in the microwave or oven until warmed through before serving.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Royal Icing for Gingerbread Men

Q: What is the best type of icing to use for gingerbread men?

A: The best type of icing to use for gingerbread men is a powdered sugar-based icing made with powdered sugar, butter or margarine, milk or cream, and vanilla extract. This type of icing is easy to make and sets well on top of the gingerbread men without becoming too runny or soft.

Q: How do I store leftover icing?

A: To store leftover icing, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Q: Can I make icing ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can make icing ahead of time by making the powdered sugar mixture first and then adding in the butter or margarine once you’re ready to assemble your gingerbread men.

Q: What if I don’t have powdered sugar?

A: If you don’t have powdered sugar, you can substitute granulated sugar mixed with cornstarch in equal parts as a substitute.

Q: How do I decorate my gingerbread men?

A: To decorate your gingerbread men, simply spread a layer of icing on top of each cookie using an offset spatula or knife, then use small candies or sprinkles to create eyes, mouths, or other details as desired.

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