Craft YourChristmas: DIY Outdoor Gingerbread Decor

December is just around the corner, and with it comes the delightful aroma of gingerbread baking in the oven. While gingerbread houses and cookies usually take center stage, let's not forget about the wonderful world of DIY outdoor gingerbread decorations. These aren't just for indoor use; you can bring the magical, warm scent of gingerbread into your outdoor spaces, creating a festive and inviting atmosphere.

Imagine a beautifully crafted gingerbread garland draped on your porch, or charming gingerbread people hanging from your Christmas tree outside. You can even create a stunning gingerbread scene that doubles as a snowman or a cozy cottage. So, roll up your sleeves, and let's embark on this sweet adventure. Here's a comprehensive guide on creating your own DIY outdoor gingerbread decorations, including tips, recipes, and decorating ideas.

Homemade Gingerbread Recipe for Decorations

Before we delve into the decorating fun, we need the perfect gingerbread dough. This isn't your standard cookie recipe; it's sturdier, to handle the wear and tear of outdoor conditions. Here's a tried-and-true recipe:

Homemade Gingerbread Recipe

Ingredients	Measurement
All-purpose flour	4 cups
Baker's sugar	1 cup
Ginger	2 tbsp
Cinnamon	2 tsp
Salt	1 tsp
Butter	3/4 cup
Molasses	1/2 cup
Eggs	2 pieces
Vanilla extract	1 tsp

Making the Dough

Mix dry ingredients together in a bowl. Cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Make a well in the center and add molasses, eggs, and vanilla. Stir until a stiff dough forms. Chill for at least 2 hours.

Once chilled, roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4" thickness. Cut out your desired shapes - houses, trees, stars, letters, ornaments - using cookie cutters or templates. Bake at 350°F (180°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until hard and slightly darker in color.

Gingerbread Royal Icing Recipe

The strength and resilience of royal icing make it an ideal choice for joining and decorating your outdoor pieces. Here's a simple recipe:

Gingerbread Royal Icing Recipe

Ingredients	Measurement
Powdered sugar	4 cups
Merckens candy melts	1 cup
Water	1/4 cup
Vanilla extract (optional)	1 tsp

Melt candy melts over low heat, then gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition. Add water and vanilla extract, then beat for 2 minutes. Allow the icing to cool before using.

Creating Outdoor Gingerbread Decorations

Now that we have our gingerbread pieces and royal icing, let's dive into some delightful outdoor decoration ideas.

Gingerbread Garlands

Create a warm, inviting atmosphere on your porch or balcony with a homemade gingerbread garland. Use cookie cutters to make shapes like stars, circles, or small houses. Once baked and cooled, use royal icing to adhere them to a long piece of ribbon or twine.

For added dazzle, paint the pieces with edible acrylic paints or dust them with luster dust for a shimmering finish. Let the garland dry completely before hanging it outside.

Gingerbread Frosted Ornaments

Transform your outdoor tree or wreath with charming gingerbread ornaments. Bake simple shapes - hearts, stars, or snowflakes - and decorate them with royal icing. Add strings for hanging, and let the icing set before displaying.

For an enchanting touch, tie small toy figurines or wooden craft supplies (like mini gift boxes or mice) onto the ornaments with string or twine.

Gingerbread Snowmen or Penguins

Stack three different-sized circles of gingerbread to create a delightful snowman or penguin. Use royal icing to attach the layers, and let them dry. Decorate with piped icing details - eyes, buttons, a smile - and create a carrot nose or flower for the snowman.

To create the illusion of a short, plump snowman, use a crisper to cut the dough into thinner circles. For a traditional, tall penguin, use standard cookie cutters.

Every year, as the gingerbread aroma wafts through the air, signaling the start of the holiday season, remember this delightful adventure in DIY outdoor gingerbread decorations. Happy holidays, and happy baking!