Unique Alternatives to a Sweet Holiday Tradition
From awe-inspiring competitions to cozy family projects, gingerbread houses are a beloved part of the holiday season. The tradition dates back centuries, with ginger first introduced to Europe in the 11th century by returning crusaders. Monks in Germany were some of the first to bake ginger-flavored treats, which became a popular dessert at medieval fairs and festivals.
The idea for a gingerbread house is believed to have come in 16th-century Germany, inspired by the Brothers Grimm fairy tale, Hansel and Gretel.
In the story, two children discover a house made of bread, cake, and candy, sparking the imagination of bakers who began crafting intricate gingerbread houses that would soon become a cherished holiday tradition. German immigrants brought this practice to America, where it has grown into a festive staple.
Today, gingerbread houses are available in a wide range of styles, from healthier alternatives to non-edible craft and savory versions. Following are some inventive twists on gingerbread houses to inspire your next holiday project.
LESS SUGAR, MORE FUN
For those wanting a healthier twist, there are plenty of options that offer the festive spirit without the sugar overload. Substitute traditional gingerbread ingredients with healthier alternatives that reduce sugar, including whole-grain flours and natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. Swap out candy decorations for dried strawberry fruit strips, fresh or dried fruit, seeds, popcorn, cereal, and coconut flakes resembling snow.
For a non-edible gingerbread house alternative, try turning cardboard, wood, or even LEGO® pieces into festive architectural wonders. Use painted foam board for sturdy walls, felt and fabric for snowy roofs, and twinkling fairy lights to add some Christmas magic.
SWEET TWISTS
For those who still enjoy the sweet holiday tradition but are looking for a unique twist, check out these holiday creations:
Pop-Tarts® house: Already frosted and ready to go, these sweet treats make the perfect canvas for a simple, festive gingerbread house alternative! Check out a tutorial at baranbakery.com.
Candy igloo: Sugar cubes, marshmallows, and HI-CHEW® candies are all perfect building blocks for a whimsical candy igloo. Use frosting – either homemade or store bought – to hold each piece in place and then sprinkle powdered sugar or white sanding sugar on top for a wintry, snow-dusted look. Visit lovelyindeed.com for more tips on creating your candy igloo.
MORE SWEET TWISTS
Waffle cone Christmas tree: Turn waffle cones upside down for instant mini Christmas trees, covering each with green frosting, then decorate with candy “ornaments” and sprinkles. Use icing to “plant” them around your gingerbread scene or set them up on their own as a colorful holiday display.
Popcorn castle: Use popcorn clusters to form castle walls, holding them together with white chocolate or caramel drizzle “mortar.” Add graham cracker turrets or pretzel drawbridges for a whimsical, fairytale castle that’s equal parts crunchy and sweet.
SAVORY CREATIONS
Try these snack-worthy gingerbready house alternatives that you can feast on without the sugar crash:
Pretzel cabin: Embrace the cozy, rustic look with a pretzel log cabin. Pretzel rods make sturdy “logs” for walls, and a creamy cheese spread holds it all together. Decorate with bacon bits for a rustic roof and use roasted nuts for adorable rock landscaping. Perfect for a mountain lodge feel!
Pizza house: Add a little pizzazz to the holidays with a pizza house. Start by gathering your materials, including thin-crust pizzas – best for structural integrity – toothpicks as nails, pepperonis as shingles, and various toppings like olives, bell peppers, and oregano. For more pizza house tips, search for pizza gingerbread house at thrillist.com.
Charcuterie chalet: Using ingredients typically found on a charcuterie board, charcuterie chalets grew popular during COVID-19 and has remained a unique twist on the classic gingerbread house tradition for holiday lovers of all ages. First, gather your materials: crackers and pretzel rods, cream cheese or Cheese Whiz, and herbs, pickles, salami, Parmesan, and nuts. Build walls using the crackers or pretzels, using cream cheese or Cheese Whiz “glue” to hold pieces together. Decorate with salami shingles, Parmesan snow, and herbs for festive flair. For a full tutorial, visit ediblearchitecture.com.