As the first snowflakes began to fall, I found myself reminiscing about childhood memories spent crafting gingerbread houses with loved ones. Those moments were filled with laughter, creativity, and the sweet aroma of spiced gingerbread wafting through the kitchen. This year, I decided to reinvent that tradition, transforming the classic gingerbread house into a healthier version, packed with nutritious ingredients that still capture the magic of the season.
This gingerbread house recipe uses whole wheat flour, coconut sugar, and a hint of molasses, making it not only delightful to the taste buds but also a more wholesome option for the holiday table. Let’s dive into the fun of creating your very own gingerbread masterpiece!
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup coconut sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1 large egg (or flax egg for a vegan option)
For Decoration
- 1 cup Greek yogurt or dairy-free yogurt (for “glue”)
- Assorted dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, apricots)
- Nuts (sliced almonds, walnuts)
- Shredded coconut (for snow)
- Dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs
- Fresh mint leaves (for a festive touch)
Instructions
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, baking soda, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and salt. Whisk them together until well blended.
In another bowl, mix the coconut sugar, applesauce, molasses, melted coconut oil, and egg. Stir until you have a smooth mixture.
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a bit more flour until it’s workable.
Once the dough is ready, divide it into two equal parts. Roll out each portion between two sheets of parchment paper until it’s about 1/4 inch thick. Use a gingerbread house template (you can easily find printable templates online) to cut out the walls and roof pieces.
Carefully transfer the cut pieces onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until they are firm and slightly golden. Remove from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
While the gingerbread pieces are cooling, prepare your “glue” by whisking the Greek yogurt until smooth. You can also add a pinch of vanilla extract for extra flavor.
Now comes the fun part! Assemble your gingerbread house by applying the yogurt to the edges of the pieces and sticking them together. Start with the base, then add the walls, and finally, place the roof on top. Allow the structure to set for about 10-15 minutes.
With your house assembled, it’s time to decorate! Use the assorted dried fruits, nuts, shredded coconut, and dark chocolate chips to create a festive scene. Get creative! You can make little pathways with coconut, decorate the roof with fruits, or even create a snowy yard.
Once your gingerbread house is complete, let it sit for a few hours (or overnight) to allow the yogurt to set. This gingerbread house not only looks stunning but is a healthier option that everyone can enjoy. It’s a beautiful centerpiece for your holiday gatherings and a delightful way to share the joy of the season.
Enjoy your wholesome gingerbread house delight, and may it bring warmth and joy to your home this winter!