Save 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 dessert board has been a holiday favorite at our family gatherings for years, bringing everyone joy and festive cheer.
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 This board always sparks joyful memories around our table during the holidays.
Notes
Add festive sprinkles, candied nuts, or your favorite cookies for extra variety. Orange zest can be added to the cookie dough for a citrusy twist. 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 This gingerbread man cookie board brings festive cheer and delicious variety to any holiday gathering.
Recipe FAQ
- → What spices are used in the gingerbread dough?
The dough features ground ginger, cinnamon, and cloves to create its warm, classic flavor.
- → How long should the dough be chilled before baking?
Chill the dough for 30 minutes to achieve the right consistency for rolling and cutting.
- → What ingredients make up the royal icing?
Royal icing is made from powdered sugar, egg white (or meringue powder with water), and vanilla extract.
- → How should the cookies be decorated?
Use the royal icing with a piping bag to create designs on cooled gingerbread men. Let the icing set before arranging.
- → What additional items are included on the board?
The board includes chocolate-covered pretzels, mini marshmallows, holiday candies, fresh strawberries, grapes, white chocolate chips, and caramel or chocolate dip.
- → Can the platter be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, the gingerbread cookies can be baked and decorated in advance. Store the assembled board loosely covered at room temperature for up to 24 hours.