Pin this 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 become a beloved holiday tradition in my family, bringing smiles and festive cheer every time I prepare it.
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.
Pin this This recipe is always the highlight of our family holiday gatherings filled with laughter and warm memories.
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.
Pin this This gingerbread man cookie board is a joyful and delicious way to celebrate the holidays with family and friends.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → How do I ensure the gingerbread men hold their shape during baking?
Chilling the dough before rolling helps cookies maintain their shape. Roll to 1/4-inch thickness and avoid overbaking to keep edges firm but not crisp.
- → What can I use to decorate the cookies?
Royal icing made with powdered sugar, egg white, and vanilla is ideal for detailed decorating. Use gel food coloring for vibrant designs.
- → How should the board be assembled for best presentation?
Arrange the gingerbread men centrally, then artfully surround with pretzels, marshmallows, candies, fresh fruit, chocolate chips, and dips for variety and balance.
- → Can the board be prepared ahead of time?
Cookies and icing can be made in advance and stored separately. Assemble the board just before serving to keep items fresh.
- → What are good beverage pairings with this platter?
Warm drinks like hot cocoa or mulled wine complement the spiced cookies and sweet accompaniments perfectly.