How to Make a Gingerbread House Cake

Building Holiday Memories: A Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting the Perfect Gingerbread House Cake”

The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than by creating a festive centerpiece that doubles as a delicious treat? Say goodbye to traditional gingerbread houses and welcome the Gingerbread House Cake—a delightful twist on a classic tradition. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through the process of constructing your own edible masterpiece that will surely leave a lasting impression on your family and friends.

Ingredients:

For the Gingerbread Cake:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup molasses
• 4 large eggs
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
• 1 ½ cups hot water

For the Icing:

• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 3 tablespoons meringue powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup water

Step 1: Baking the Gingerbread Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a large gingerbread house cake mold.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
3. In a separate large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the molasses and mix until well combined.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Dissolve the baking soda in hot water and add it to the wet ingredients, mixing until smooth.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared mold and bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the cake to cool completely before removing it from the mold.

Step 2: Assembling the Gingerbread House Cake

1. Once the cake is cooled, trim the edges to create a flat surface for assembly.
2. Cut the cake into four equal-sized rectangles—these will be the walls and roof of your gingerbread house.
3. Prepare the icing by combining powdered sugar, meringue powder, vanilla extract, and water. Mix until the icing forms stiff peaks.
4. Place a dollop of icing on a serving platter to act as the base for your gingerbread house.
5. Assemble the walls and roof, securing them with icing. Allow the structure to set for at least 30 minutes.

Step 3: Decorating Your Gingerbread House Cake

1. Get creative with your decorations! Use candies, edible glitter, and colorful icing to bring your gingerbread house cake to life.
2. Create windows, doors, and a pathway using assorted candies and icing.
3. Consider adding a dusting of powdered sugar for a snowy effect.
4. Allow your creativity to flow and personalize your gingerbread house cake to suit your holiday theme.

Step 4: Share and Enjoy

Once your gingerbread house cake is complete, gather your loved ones, and share in the joy of creating and devouring this delightful holiday masterpiece. It’s not just a cake; it’s a memory in the making—a sweet celebration of the season. Happy holidays!