Top Gingerbread House Kits Reviewed
If you love creating festive treats, a gingerbread house kit is a fantastic way to get started. These kits come with everything you need, making it easy and fun for home cooks and beginners alike. In this review, we’ll explore some of the best gingerbread house kits available, highlighting their features, pros, and cons to help you choose the perfect one for your holiday tradition.
1. aFamilyFun Gingerbread House Kit
This kit is a popular choice for families and beginners. It includes pre-baked gingerbread panels, royal icing, and a variety of candies for decorating. The panels are sturdy and well-shaped, so building the house is straightforward. The kit also comes with easy-to-follow instructions, perfect for first-timers.
- Features: Pre-baked gingerbread pieces, colorful candies, icing piping bags, and decorating ideas.
- Pros: Simple to assemble, good kit for kids, lots of candy options.
- Cons: Slightly smaller houses, so more suitable for small groups or children.
2. Wilton Gingerbread House Kit
Wilton’s kit is a classic and well-loved for its reliability and quality. It offers pre-assembled walls and roofing, which can save time and reduce mess. The kit includes a large assortment of candies and decorating tools to personalize your house.
- Features: Pre-made gingerbread pieces, candies, icing, and decorating tips.
- Pros: Durable pieces, professional look, extensive decorating supplies.
- Cons: Slightly more expensive, may be a bit complex for very young children.
3. Gingersnap Art Gingerbread House Kit
This kit is ideal if you’re looking for a more creative experience. It includes plain gingerbread panels and a variety of edible decorations, encouraging you to design your house from scratch. It’s perfect for those who want to add a personal touch.
- Features: Uniced gingerbread panels, assorted candies, and icing sugar for decorating.
- Pros: Creative freedom, customizable design, good for arts and crafts fans.
- Cons: Requires more time and patience, less guidance for beginners.
4. Trader Joe’s Gingerbread House Kit
If you prefer a quick and simple option, Trader Joe’s offers a compact kit that’s great for a last-minute project. It includes all the essentials and is budget-friendly.
- Features: Pre-baked pieces, candies, and icing included.
- Pros: Easy assembly, affordable, perfect for a quick holiday activity.
- Cons: Limited decoration options, smaller house size.
5. Milton’s Crafty Gingerbread House Kit
Designed for adults and experienced decorators, this kit emphasizes quality and detailed decorations. It features allergy-friendly ingredients and a sophisticated design style, making it suitable for more serious bakers.
- Features: Premium gingerbread, assorted decorative candies, and high-quality icing.
- Pros: Elegant design options, high-quality ingredients, good for gifting.
- Cons: More expensive, not ideal for young children or beginners.
Choosing the right gingerbread house kit depends on your experience level, the amount of time you want to spend, and the decorating style you prefer. Whether you’re looking for a simple, fun project or a high-end crafting experience, there’s a kit out there to make your holiday special.
How to Choose the Right Kit
Picking the perfect gingerbread house kit can make your holiday baking experience more fun and less stressful. With so many options available, it helps to consider a few key factors like age, skill level, budget, and theme preferences. This way, you’ll find a kit that matches your needs and helps create a festive, enjoyable project.
Consider Age and Skill Level
If you’re shopping for young children or beginners, look for kits with simple assembly features. These often include pre-cut pieces and easy-to-handle decorations. Kits marked as “easy” or “kids-friendly” are great for little hands and first-time builders. For older kids or adults with some baking experience, more elaborate kits with detailed designs and a variety of toppings can add extra fun.
Another tip is to think about the patience and fine motor skills required. If you or your team prefer quick projects, choose a kit with fewer pieces and straightforward instructions. For those who enjoy detailed decorating and creative flair, select a kit offering plenty of decorating options, including candy, icing, and other embellishments.
Set a Budget
Gingerbread house kits come in a range of prices, from affordable options to premium sets. Basic kits with simple designs tend to be budget-friendly and perfect if you’re looking to keep costs low. More intricate or larger kits can be a bit pricier, but they often include higher-quality ingredients and more decoration choices.
Remember, sometimes spending a little extra can make the process more enjoyable if it means better quality or more creative possibilities. Decide how much you want to invest and choose a kit that offers good value for that price.
Think About Theme and Style
Would you like a classic gingerbread house, a gingerbread village, or something more whimsical? Kits are available in many themes, from traditional to seasonal or even fantasy-inspired designs. Check the pictures on the packaging or product description to see the style and decide what looks most appealing.
If you’re planning a themed party or want the house to match your holiday decor, look for kits with specific color schemes or themed decorations, like snowflakes, Santa figures, or winter scenes. Some kits even come with unique shapes, like gingerbread animals or ornaments, for extra creative fun.
Additional Tips for Choosing a Kit
- Read customer reviews to get honest feedback on the ease of assembly and decoration.
- Check the packing for ingredients and decorations included so you know exactly what you’re getting.
- Look for kits with clear, step-by-step instructions—a helpful feature for first-timers.
- Consider if the kit includes everything you need, like icing, decorations, and tools, or if you’ll need to buy extras separately.
Whether you’re making a quick holiday gift or creating a show-stopping centerpiece, choosing the right gingerbread house kit can make all the difference. Take your time, think about your preferences and needs, and enjoy the festive process of building your holiday masterpiece.
Decorating Tips for Your Gingerbread House
Decorating your gingerbread house is the fun part that lets your creativity shine. Whether you’re aiming for a whimsical winter scene or a cozy holiday home, smart decorating tricks can make your masterpiece both beautiful and sturdy. Here are some practical tips to help you craft a charming and durable gingerbread house.
Start with a Stable Base
Choose a sturdy, flat surface to build and decorate your gingerbread house on. A thick cardboard board covered in foil or parchment paper works well. This gives your house a solid foundation and makes transporting it easier if you’re taking it somewhere. If you want added stability, glue a piece of cardboard to the bottom of your gingerbread structure with royal icing, which acts like a strong edible glue.
Secure the Structure Properly
When assembling your house, use a thick royal icing as glue. Pipe generous amounts at the edges where walls meet and hold each piece in place for a few minutes. Patience pays off— a well-constructed frame will last longer and look better. Let the structure sit for at least an hour before decorating to ensure it’s stable enough to handle the embellishments.
Plan Your Design Before Decorating
Take a moment to visualize or sketch your design before you start. Think about the color scheme, where to place windows or doors, and what kinds of candies or decorations you want to use. Planning prevents clutter and helps you achieve a balanced, attractive look.
- Layer your decorations from the bottom up to add depth.
- Use different heights and textures for visual interest.
- Save small details like sprinkles for last to avoid smudging larger decorations.
Choose the Right Decorations
Use a variety of candies, cookies, and edible embellishments that are easy to work with. M&Ms, gumdrops, candy canes, and chocolate chips are popular choices. Keep in mind that some candies will melt if the temperature is too warm, so decorate in a cool room. Consider baking small cookies or using pre-made gingerbread pieces as bricks, adding more texture and authenticity.
Use Royal Icing Smartly
Royal icing isn’t just for gluing— it’s also perfect for adding decorative elements like snow, icicles, and window panes. Fill a piping bag with royal icing fitted with a small tip for fine detail work. Practice a few strokes on paper first to get a feel for the pressure needed. For snow or ice effects, pipe the icing in a slightly uneven, textured way to mimic natural frost.
Balance Aesthetics and Stability
While decorative candies can make your house look festive, avoid overloading each part. Too many candies might make walls weak or cause decorations to fall off. Prioritize the parts of the house that need support, and add lighter details on top. For example, place heavier candies at the base and delicate sprinkles on the roof.
Protect Your Artwork
If you want your decorated gingerbread house to last longer, keep it in a cool, dry place. Avoid humidity, which can cause icing and candies to soften. You can also spray a light coat of clear edible sealant over the decorations for extra protection, especially if you’re displaying your house outdoors or for a few days.
Remember, decorating is all about having fun and expressing your holiday spirit. Mix colors, try new textures, and don’t be afraid to experiment. With patience and a little practice, your gingerbread house will be as charming and sturdy as it is delicious.
FAQs About Gingerbread Kits
If you’re new to gingerbread house kits or simply want to enjoy this fun holiday activity without any worries, you probably have some questions. Here are some common questions and helpful answers to guide you through your gingerbread house adventure.
How do I store gingerbread house kits before assembling?
To keep your gingerbread kit fresh and maintain the quality of the cookies and decorations, store it in a cool, dry place. Avoid areas with high humidity or direct sunlight, as moisture can make the gingerbread soft and cause decorations to warp. It’s best to keep the kit in its original packaging or transfer it to an airtight container. This will prevent it from becoming stale or attracting pests.
If you’re not planning to assemble the house immediately, try to do so within a week of opening the kit. If it contains pre-cut gingerbread walls and roof pieces, make sure they stay flat and sealed tight to avoid breaking or bending.
What is the best way to assemble a gingerbread house kit?
Assembly can be simple, especially if you follow a few helpful tips. First, lay out all the pieces and decorations to ensure everything is accounted for. Prepare your icing—royal icing is often used because it dries hard and holds well. You can make your own or buy pre-made icing from the store.
Start by piping a thick line of icing along the edges of the walls and connect them to form the basic shape. Support the walls with cans or jars until the icing sets, which might take about 15 to 30 minutes. Next, attach the roof pieces in the same way, using plenty of icing for a secure fit. Finish decorating once the structure feels sturdy. Patience is key, so take your time to prevent collapse or slipping.
Are gingerbread house kits safe for children?
Most gingerbread kits are safe for children, but supervision is important. Always check the packaging for age recommendations, especially if small decorations or sharp tools are involved. Use child-friendly icing or let kids help with decorating, but keep sharp knives or hot tools out of reach.
Be cautious of choking hazards if the kit includes small candies or decorations. Also, make sure to keep edible pieces away from pets. If you plan to involve children in assembly, choose a kit with larger, non-chokable decorations and supervise the process closely.
Can I customize my gingerbread house kit?
Absolutely! Customizing is part of the fun. Feel free to add your own candies, sprinkles, or edible decorations to make your gingerbread house unique. You can also paint details with food coloring or add extra texture with shredded coconut or crushed cookies.
Just remember, if you modify the kit, keep safety in mind. Use edible, food-safe items and avoid anything that might cause allergies or safety issues for your family and guests.
What should I do if my gingerbread house collapses or breaks?
Don’t worry if your house isn’t perfect or if parts break. Gingerbread is delicate, and even professional bakers experience mishaps. If a part collapses, you can use extra icing to glue it back together or reinforce the structure with candy sticks or pretzels.
For a quick fix, consider turning a broken piece into a decorative element, like a pathway or garden. Remember, the process is about fun and creativity—imperfections are part of the charm!
Trending Styles and Themes
If you’re excited to build your own gingerbread house, knowing the current popular styles and themes can inspire your creativity. Gingerbread houses have evolved from simple winter scenes to elaborate, themed works of art. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, exploring these trends can help you craft a memorable holiday display or a fun project for all ages.
One of the biggest trends is going for a themed gingerbread house. Popular themes include fairy tale castles, whimsical holiday villages, and even spooky Halloween designs. These create a storytelling element that makes your gingerbread house more engaging. For example, you might turn your gingerbread creation into a snowy castle with pastel icing accents or a cozy cottage with tiny LED lights inside.
Another popular style is incorporating modern or minimalist designs. This trend favors clean lines, simple shapes, and a neutral color palette. Think of sleek, geometric houses decorated with metallic accents or subtle fairy lights. These contemporary designs work well for weddings or modern holiday decor and appeal to those who prefer a more understated look.
Retro and nostalgic themes are also making a comeback. Classic Christmas scenes like gingerbread men, candy canes, and Santa figures are popular additions. You can enhance this look with traditional colors like red, green, and white, and use vintage-style candies and decorations. These themes evoke warmth and memories of holiday past, adding a cozy touch to your display.
In recent years, nature-inspired and outdoor themes have gained popularity. Think snow-covered landscapes, pine trees, reindeer, and woodland animals. Using natural materials such as pretzels for fences, pinecones, dried fruits, or edible bark can add texture and authenticity. This trend captures the beauty of winter outdoors, bringing a fresh twist to your gingerbread house.
Color schemes are also evolving. Bright, bold colors are trending, with vibrant icing and candies creating eye-catching contrasts. Some bakers prefer a pastel palette for a soft, dreamy effect, while others go for metallic shades to add sparkle and elegance. Mixing textures and colors can showcase your creativity and make your gingerbread house stand out.
Don’t forget about interactive or functional elements. Small doors that open, pathways made from crushed cookies, or mini gingerbread figures can make your scene more lively. Adding tiny LED lights inside or around your house can create a magical glow, especially for evening displays. These details not only enhance visual appeal but also make your gingerbread house more fun to display or give as a gift.
- Think about your theme before starting—this guides your decoration choices.
- Mix and match textures and colors for a dynamic look.
- Use edible decorations whenever possible for easy clean-up.
- Plan your construction in stages: build, decorate, then add final details.
- Don’t be afraid to get creative—your gingerbread house is a personal art piece.
Expert Tips for Perfect Results
Building a gingerbread house can be a fun holiday tradition, but getting it to turn out flawless takes some practice and care. Here are some professional tips to help you master each step, from preparing the dough to adding the final decorative touches.
1. Use the Right Dough Consistency
Start with a sturdy gingerbread dough that holds its shape. It should be firm enough to cut easily but not too hard. If your dough is too soft, it may spread or become difficult to work with. If it’s too dry, it might crack when rolling out.
Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least an hour before rolling. This makes it easier to handle and helps prevent shrinking or warping during baking.
2. Cut Out Precise Shapes
Use a sharp cookie cutter or a template with clean lines. Place the template on the dough and tap gently to cut, avoiding dragging. For more accuracy, dust your surface and cutter with a little flour. Keep the cut pieces in the fridge for a few minutes before baking to help them set and prevent spreading.
As you cut, make sure to cut out windows or doors in the walls at the same time. This saves time and ensures consistency.
3. Bake at the Right Temperature
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the gingerbread pieces for about 12-15 minutes, or until they are firm and slightly darker at the edges. Keep a close eye, as overbaking can make the pieces brittle, while underbaking may cause them to bend when you assemble.
Allow the pieces to cool completely before decorating or assembly. This prevents warping and helps the icing stick better.
4. Prepare a Strong, Tasty Icings
Icing acts as the glue for your gingerbread house. Use royal icing made with powdered sugar, egg whites, and a squeeze of lemon for a strong hold. Decorate with piping bags for precision, and practice steady pressure for clean lines.
For extra flavor, add a bit of vanilla or almond extract. Keep some extra icing handy for repairs and touch-ups as you build.
5. Assemble Carefully and Quickly
Assemble the walls and roof while the icing is still wet and tacky. Use small braces, like cups or cans, to hold pieces in place until the icing sets. Work on a flat surface to keep everything level.
If you need to, reinforce structures with additional icing, especially at joints or corners. Patience is key—allow the house to sit undisturbed for several hours or overnight for a firm hold.
6. Decorate Thoughtfully
When decorating, start with larger elements like trees or garlands first. Save detailed sugar work or candy for last so the focus doesn’t get overwhelmed. Use a variety of candies, but ensure they are stable and won’t slide or fall off easily.
Always dry decorated pieces in a cool, dry place to prevent smudging or melting. For a polished look, finish with a glaze or edible glitter for sparkle.
7. Handle with Care
Gingerbread houses are delicate. When moving or storing, do so gently. Wrap the house in tissue paper or bubble wrap if necessary. Keep it in a cool, dry spot away from direct sunlight.
With patience and these expert tips, your gingerbread house will be the highlight of the holiday season. Enjoy the process as much as the finished masterpiece!