Step

• 1

  Cream margarine and sugar. Add molasses. Alternate dry ingredients with water.

• 2

  You'll need to make 7 templates by drawing the dimensions out on butcher paper. Use the templates as a stencil to cut the dough into the required pieces.

• 3

  Two front and rear walls: 5 inches high by 8 inches long. Cut out 2 windows from each wall, and 2 1/2 by 1 1/2-inch door in one.

• 4

  Two side walls shaped like a house (triangle on a square): 5 inches high by 6 inches long, with a triangle 7 inches high on top (cut all in 1 piece). Cut 1 window out of each side.

• 5

  Two overhanging roof pieces: 4 1/2 inches wide by 9 inches long.

• 6

  One door: 2 1/2 inches high by 1 1/2 inches wide.

• 7

  Roll out into quarter inch thick sheets and cut them into the shape of your gingerbread house using the templates.

• 8

  When ready to cook, set the temperature to 350 degrees F and preheat, lid closed, for 10 to 15 minutes.

• 9

  Bake at 350 degrees F for 8 to 10 minutes or until lightly browned around edges. Let cool.

• 10

  For frosting, whip ingredients on high speed with mixer until frosting forms peaks and holds its shape, about 5 to 7 minutes.

• 11

  Assemble the house using the frosting as glue by setting them up on a cardboard base, and piping the royal icing at the joints with a medium plain tip from the inside.

• 12

  Prop the sides up with glasses and let set for 30 minutes. Attach the roof pieces, using the icing in the same way.

• 13

  Decorate with Royal Frosting and candy while you listen to Christmas music and visit with your friends and family

• 14

  Makes 2 large size gingerbread houses.