5 Hilariously Adorable Gingerbread House Decorating Ideas for the Whole Family

Table of Contents

• Introduction: The Joy of Family Gingerbread Building
• Candy Cane Chimney & Chocolate Brick Walls
• Frosted Snow-Capped Roof with Sprinkles
• Gummy Bear Window Frames
• Licorice Pathway to the Door
• Marshmallow Clouds & Peppermint Staircase
• Buying Guide: Essential Tools & Decorations
• Conclusion: A Sweet Holiday Tradition

Introduction: The Joy of Family Gingerbread Building 🎄

If you're looking for a fun, creative, and slightly messy family activity this holiday season, look no further than the classic gingerbread house! It’s more than just a craft — it’s a chance to bond, laugh at wonky candy placement, and create something that doubles as décor and snack stash.

Whether you're a seasoned baker or a total newbie, this guide will walk you through five super-fun gingerbread house decorating ideas that are perfect for families, plus a detailed buying guide so you’re fully stocked for crafting chaos.

Idea #1: Candy Cane Chimney & Chocolate Brick Walls

What You'll Need:

• Mini candy canes (broken in half)
• Milk chocolate bars (cut into small bricks)
• Thick royal icing
• Piping bag or sandwich bag with corner snipped

How to Do It:

1. Use broken mini candy canes to build your chimney by standing them upright and securing with icing.
2. Cut chocolate bars into uniform rectangles and stick them side-by-side on one wall for a brick effect.
3. Let dry overnight to set properly.

Pros	Cons
Quick and deliciously effective	Chocolate may melt if not cooled quickly

Idea #2: Frosted Snow-Capped Roof with Sprinkles

This idea gives your gingerbread house a wintery vibe that screams “holiday card material.”

Ingredients & Tools:

• Royal icing (white or tinted blue for icy effect)
• Sprinkles in silver, white, and light blue
• Piping bag or spoon

Steps:

1. Frost the roof generously with thick icing.
2. Immediately sprinkle liberally while icing is still wet.
3. Let dry completely before moving.

Idea #3: Gummy Bear Window Frames

Kids will go gaga over this colorful twist. No need for drawn-on windows — just use gummy bears!

You’ll Need:

• Gummy bears in assorted colors
• Thin piping tip for precision icing

Decorating Tips:

1. Outline the window frames using icing.
2. Place gummy bears along the frame like little jewels.
3. Let the icing set to ensure they stay put.

Best For	Alternative
Kids and beginner decorators	Colored M&Ms or jellybeans

Idea #4: Licorice Pathway to the Door

Add whimsical charm by creating a path leading to your gingerbread house entrance using black licorice twists.

Materials:

• Black licorice twists
• Flat candies (like Hershey's Kisses) for steps
• Small signs made from paper or fondant

How to Build Your Path:

1. Start near the front door of your gingerbread structure.
2. Lay licorice in a zig-zag or straight line to simulate cobblestones.
3. Place candy kisses as stepping stones or doorsteps.

Idea #5: Marshmallow Clouds & Peppermint Staircase

Turn your gingerbread house into a whimsical winter wonderland with these fluffy and festive touches.

Items Required:

• Mini marshmallows
• Peppermint sticks
• Fondant stars or candy snowflakes
• Sturdy base (e.g., cake board or wooden tray)

Assembly Instructions:

1. Glue mini marshmallows around the house to simulate falling snow or clouds.
2. Arrange peppermint sticks diagonally to create a spiral staircase effect.
3. Top with fondant stars for extra sparkle.

Buying Guide: Essential Tools & Decorations 🛒

Here's a curated list of must-have supplies and tools to make your gingerbread house project both enjoyable and successful.

Must-Have Tools & Supplies

Product	Details	Why It's Great	Best For	Price Range
Wilton Gingerbread House Kit	Includes pre-baked walls, roof, and instructions	Perfect for beginners; everything you need in one box	Families, first-timers	$15–$25
Royal Icing Mix	Dries hard, ideal for structural support	Can be homemade or store-bought	All decorators	$5–$10
Food-Grade Glue Gun	Edible glue for quick fixes	Great for holding heavy decorations	Advanced builders	$10–$20
Candy Assortment Pack	Includes sprinkles, gumdrops, licorice, etc.	Saves time shopping for individual items	Children and creatives	$8–$15

Conclusion: A Sweet Holiday Tradition 🍬

Creating a gingerbread house isn’t just about decoration — it’s about making memories. Whether you go minimalist with a few gummy bears or full-blown Santa village, the process is what counts.

So grab your kids, roll up your sleeves, and get ready for a sticky, sweet, and slightly chaotic holiday tradition. And remember: if things don’t stick perfectly… just eat the evidence!