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 cookie board has become a holiday tradition in my family that everyone looks forward to every year.
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
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, and salt.
- Add Wet Ingredients:
- 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.
- Roll and Cut:
- 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.
- Bake:
- Bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are firm. Cool completely on wire racks.
- Prepare Royal Icing:
- 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.
- Assemble Board:
- 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.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, or cover loosely and store at room temperature for up to 24 hours.
Save Sharing this cookie board with family creates joyful holiday memories we cherish every year.
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 is a delightful centerpiece and treat for any holiday gathering.
Recipe Help & Answers
- → What spices enhance the gingerbread dough?
Ground ginger, cinnamon, and cloves provide that classic warm, aromatic flavor typical of gingerbread.
- → How should the dough be prepared before baking?
The dough is chilled after mixing to firm up, which helps achieve clean shapes when cutting out the cookies.
- → What is the purpose of royal icing in this board?
Royal icing is used to decorate the gingerbread men, adding sweet detail and a smooth finish that sets firmly.
- → How can I keep the board fresh for a party?
Arrange the cookies and accompaniments just before serving or cover loosely at room temperature for up to 24 hours.
- → What ingredients are included in the board besides gingerbread?
The board features chocolate-covered pretzels, mini marshmallows, assorted candies, fresh strawberries, grapes, white chocolate chips, and dips for variety.
- → Can I customize the flavors of the gingerbread dough?
Yes, adding orange zest offers a citrus twist; other spices or mix-ins can be included to suit taste preferences.