Hot on HuffPost Parents:
Child Limit Imposed On Muslims In Parts Of Myanmar
PHOTO: Virgin Mary Figure Appears With Child Battling Leukemia
Build a Gingerbread House This Weekend
Filed under: Holidays
Historically, it's not clear how the gingerbread house became a Christmas tradition. Crusaders brought ginger back to Europe, and originally it was a treat only for those who could afford it. But as travel and exploring became more widespread, soon everyone could afford this tasty spice. Hansel and Gretel may have popularized the idea of building a candy house.
However the gingerbread house came to be, it's now a tasty tradition that many families participate in during the holiday season. Here are some DIY houses that you can create yourself at home.
Simple
If you're like me (in that you don't like to make things complicated and/or you have small children), then simple is the way to go. And you can't get much simpler than graham crackers and icing. The supplies are inexpensive and the technique is so easy, even the youngest builders can participate.
Just because you choose simple building materials doesn't mean that you can't have a house with style, however. Check out the video from My Recipes below for step-by-step instructions on getting started.
Reusable
This adorable felt gingerbread house won't slowly disappear as Christmas approaches. Instead, you can pull it out to enjoy year after year. (Added bonus: You won't be tempted by all the extra candy in the house.) Since this requires cutting out several dozen small pieces and hand sewing, it's a more appropriate project for older children, who also may be less likely to complain about the missing candy.
From Scratch
Love to bake? Then it is possible to build a gingerbread house from scratch. But unlike the graham cracker cookies above, this is no simple task. The beauty of this project, though, is a beautiful, one of a kind gingerbread house that's a true masterpiece.
Healthy
Every party needs a ... well .... you know how the saying goes. But seriously, some parents don't want to give up on good nutrition, even for the holidays. But that doesn't mean kids have to miss out on gingerbread fun. Try building a healthier gingerbread house. Substitute peanut butter for icing, then decorate with dried fruit, nuts, raisins, granola, or other healthier alternatives.
Do you build a gingerbread house every year? Share some of your favorite designs or recipes with us!
Your<span>Voice</span>
Ask Us Anything About Parenting
Recently Asked
- PLAINTIFF’S MOTION FOR JUDGMENT ON THE PLEADINGS AS TO THE ANSWER BY DEFENDANTS ______________________________. Plaintiff, ________________________ h...
- If i own all or most of the property in dc think the mayor already knows. president and others including Embassies. on my property for 20 +years
- Starting a government?
TheTalkies:RelatedVideos
-
CBGB Punk Gingerbread House
Nothing says punk like making a gingerbread house! Especially when that gingerbread house is a CBGB's gingerbread house! Take that establishment!
-
Overview of a Gingerbread House
A quick overview of a gingerbread house. Tips on how do make this beautiful gingerbread house.
-
The White House Gingerbread House: Time Lapse Video
Check out how the White House chefs make a fabulous Gingerbread House that is a replica of The White House for the holidays.
-
The White House's Incredible Gingerbread House
The First Family is no exception to holiday traditions, and while it doesn't make a gingerbread house, some masterful creations are made by the White House kitchen every year.
SitesWeLove
- Site Map
- |
- Staff
- |
- Terms of Service
- |
- Privacy Policy
- |
- Trademarks
- |
- Advertise With Us
- |
- About Our Ads
- |
- AOL Downloads
- |
- Contact Us
- |
© Copyright 2012 AOL Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Aol Family
ReaderComments (Page 1 of 1)
12-11-2008 @ 4:22PM
S Smith said...This years Sams CLub is offering a gingerbread house kit with all the trimmings and this makes it much more affordable than buying individual decorations for them.....
Reply
5-17-2010 @ 1:59AM
Sell Your Laptop said...Thank you for Posting & I got to read nice information on your site.and will look forward to your future update.
Reply