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 always brings joy to our family celebrations and sparks holiday spirit.
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
- Preheat:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Mix dry ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, and salt.
- Combine wet and dry:
- 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.
- Roll and cut:
- 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.
- Bake:
- Bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are firm. Cool completely on wire racks.
- Prepare icing:
- 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.
- Assemble board:
- 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.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, or cover loosely and store at room temperature for up to 24 hours.
Save Sharing this cookie board has become a beloved family tradition bringing everyone together around the holidays.
Notes
Add festive sprinkles candied nuts or your favorite cookies for extra variety. Orange zest can be added to the cookie dough for a citrusy twist. Pair with hot cocoa or mulled wine for a cozy holiday treat. Royal icing can be colored with gel food coloring for more decorative options.
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
Nutritional Information
Calories 320 Total Fat 9 g Carbohydrates 57 g Protein 3 g per serving
Save Enjoy serving this festive cookie board to guests and family bringing warmth and sweetness to your holiday celebrations.
Kitchen Help
- → What makes the gingerbread men spiced?
The gingerbread dough is flavored with ground ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, giving the cookies their classic warm and festive aroma.
- → How do you decorate the gingerbread men?
Using a smooth royal icing made from powdered sugar, egg whites, and vanilla, you can pipe detailed designs to add festive flair.
- → Can this board be made ahead of time?
Yes, gingerbread men cookies and decorations can be prepared and chilled in advance. Assemble the board shortly before serving to maintain freshness.
- → What treats complement the gingerbread men on the board?
Chocolate-covered pretzels, mini marshmallows, holiday candies, fresh strawberries, grapes, white chocolate chips, and dips create a festive and balanced variety.
- → Are there tips for customizing the spread?
Add festive sprinkles, candied nuts, or a citrus twist like orange zest to the dough. Pairing with hot cocoa or mulled wine enhances the holiday feel.