Save to Pinterest 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 become a holiday tradition in my family, bringing joy and warmth to every gathering.
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 to Pinterest This dessert board always sparks laughter and creates lasting holiday memories for our family and friends.
Notes
Pair with hot cocoa or mulled wine for a cozy holiday treat.
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.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy assembling this festive board that brings both beauty and delicious flavors to your holiday table.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What spices are used in the gingerbread dough?
The dough features ground ginger, cinnamon, and cloves to provide its signature warm and festive flavor.
- → How do you achieve smooth royal icing?
Mix powdered sugar with egg white or meringue powder and vanilla extract until smooth and pipeable for decorating cookies.
- → Can this board be prepared ahead of time?
Cookies and icing can be made in advance and decorated before arranging on the board just prior to serving.
- → What treats accompany the gingerbread men on the board?
The platter includes chocolate-covered pretzels, mini marshmallows, assorted candies, fresh strawberries, grapes, white chocolate chips, and dips.
- → How should the decorated cookies be stored?
Once iced and set, cookies can be stored loosely covered at room temperature for up to 24 hours.