Save A festive and whimsical dessert platter featuring classic gingerbread man cookies, complemented by a vibrant assortment of sweet treats, dips, and fresh fruit perfect for holiday gatherings.
This gingerbread man cookie board has been a favorite at every holiday party I've hosted. Seeing everyone enjoy the festive flavors along with the variety of accompaniments truly warms my heart.
Ingredients
- Gingerbread Man Cookies: 3 cups all-purpose flour, 3/4 cup brown sugar packed, 1 tablespoon ground ginger, 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 3/4 cup unsalted butter softened, 3/4 cup molasses, 1 large egg
- Royal Icing (for decorating): 2 cups powdered sugar, 1 large egg white (or 2 tablespoons meringue powder + 2 tablespoons water), 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Board Additions: 1 cup chocolate-covered pretzels, 1 cup mini marshmallows, 1/2 cup assorted holiday candies (gumdrops, peppermints, etc.), 1 cup fresh strawberries halved, 1 cup red and green grapes, 1/2 cup white chocolate chips, 1/2 cup caramel or chocolate dip
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, and salt.
- Step 3:
- Add softened butter, molasses, and egg. Mix until a smooth dough forms. Divide the dough in half, flatten into disks, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.
- Step 4:
- Roll out dough on a floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut out gingerbread men using a cookie cutter. Place on prepared baking sheets.
- Step 5:
- Bake for 10 12 minutes until edges are firm. Cool completely on wire racks.
- Step 6:
- For royal icing, beat powdered sugar, egg white (or meringue powder and water), and vanilla until smooth. Transfer to a piping bag and decorate cooled cookies as desired. Let icing set.
- Step 7:
- Arrange gingerbread men in the center of a large board or platter. Artfully surround with chocolate pretzels, marshmallows, candies, fruit, white chocolate chips, and dips.
- Step 8:
- Serve immediately, or cover loosely and store at room temperature for up to 24 hours.
Save This dessert board always brings my family together, sparking joy and laughter as we share stories and enjoy the holiday spirit.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, Electric mixer, Rolling pin, Gingerbread man cookie cutter, Baking sheets, Parchment paper, Wire rack, Piping bag (for icing), Large serving board or platter
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), eggs, and dairy (butter). Some candies may contain nuts or soy check labels if serving to those with allergies.
Nutritional Information
Calories 320 , Total Fat 9 g , Carbohydrates 57 g , Protein 3 g per serving
Save Enjoy assembling your gingerbread cookie board and sharing the festive cheer with loved ones.