Are you looking for some inspiration to create the most delicious and eye-catching gingerbread house this year? Well, look no further. In this blog post, we’ll go through a variety of different candy options and find the best candy for gingerbread houses. From festive colored icing to amazing themed treats – get ready to be inspired by all of the possibilities. Whether you’re making your very own gingerbread house or bringing cheer to someone else’s home, these snacks will make any afternoon delightful. Read on to discover some of the best ideas for adding that special touch to your edible holiday decorations.
What is a gingerbread house?
A gingerbread house is a type of biscuit-style confection that has been traditionally used to decorate for the Christmas holiday. It is typically made out of dough consisting of sugar, butter, flour, eggs and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. The combination of these ingredients creates a sweet-smelling treat that can be shaped into any desired form. A variety of decorations can be added to the gingerbread house, including icing for the roof and walls, as well as pieces of candy or other decorations.
What can you use to decorate gingerbread houses?
When it comes to choosing the best candy for gingerbread houses, you are only limited by your imagination. Sprinkles, M&Ms, gummy bears, and chocolate chips are all great options that can easily give your gingerbread house an extra pop of flavor and color. If you’re feeling creative, try using different-shaped mini marshmallows or pretzels to create a unique look.
For a more classic touch, try using gumdrops or jellied candies in festive hues like red and green to bring out your gingerbread house’s traditional holiday charm. For those looking for something a bit more special, consider adding pieces of candy canes or mini chocolate Santas to add some delightful whimsy.
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What candy is used for gingerbread houses?
Some of the best candy for decorating gingerbread houses include gumdrops, candy canes, chocolate chips, hard candy, candy corn, licorice sticks, Skittles, and M&Ms. You can use these candies to create a variety of fun designs for your gingerbread house. For example, you could use gumdrops to make windows and doors or use small pieces of candy corn to create a colorful roof.

How to decorate gingerbread houses with candy?
Candies come in many shapes and sizes, making them the perfect addition to any gingerbread house. To get started, choose a variety of colors to give your house a festive look. Then select the type of candy you’d like to use. Some popular choices for decorating gingerbread houses include:
• Candy canes – These iconic holiday treats are perfect for adding some color and texture to your house. They can be placed in a variety of designs and patterns, from arches over doorways to stripes along the roof.
• Gumdrops – If you’re looking for a classic gingerbread house decoration, gumdrops are the way to go. Try using different sizes and colors to create a unique design.
• Licorice – If you want something a bit more subtle, licorice is the perfect choice. It can be used in various shapes and sizes to bring your house to life.
• M&Ms – Add some extra color and sweetness to your house with these bite-sized treats! Try using different colors to create a rainbow effect.
• Chocolate chips – For an extra bit of texture, use chocolate chips to add some pizazz to your house. They’re perfect for creating details like windows and doors.

Tips for using candies to decorate gingerbread houses
When it comes to decorating gingerbread houses, there are some tips and tricks you should keep in mind:
- Make sure your house is assembled firmly and that all of the pieces fit together tightly. This will ensure that your decorations stay in place.
- Don’t be afraid to get creative with your design. Have fun experimenting with different colors, shapes, and textures to make your gingerbread house unique.
- Use a variety of candy pieces for decorating. Combining different sizes, shapes, and flavors will help add texture and interest to your design.
- Use icing as an adhesive for all of the pieces you are adding to the house. This will ensure that all of your decorations stay in place.
- Have patience when it comes to decorating. Take your time assembling each piece and make sure everything is firmly in place before adding more elements.
- Use a variety of tools, such as cookie cutters and toothpicks, to help create intricate designs.
- Remember to have fun. Decorating gingerbread houses is a great way to get creative and spend some quality time with your loved ones. So don’t forget to enjoy the process and make it a memorable experience.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be sure to create a gingerbread house that will impress your family and friends this holiday season.
14 best candy for gingerbread houses to decorate
When it comes to decorating your gingerbread house with candy, there are so many delicious options! Here are some of our favorite ideas:
Necco Wafers
Necco Wafers are a classic favorite when it comes to candy, and they make the perfect decoration for gingerbread houses. These pastel-colored wafer candies come in seven different flavors, including chocolate, licorice, cinnamon, and wintergreen. They’re a great way to add some vibrant colors to your gingerbread house design.

Gumdrops
Gumdrops are another great option when it comes to decorating gingerbread houses. These sweet treats come in a variety of colors and flavors, so you can make sure your house is decked out with all the festive vibes. Gumdrops are also very easy to shape and adhere to any surface, making them perfect for creating intricate designs on your gingerbread house.

Spree Candies
Spree candies are small, round candy pieces that are crunchy on the outside and chewy on the inside. They come in a variety of colors and flavors, including strawberry, lemon-lime, and cherry. Use them to create beautiful designs on your gingerbread house – they’ll be sure to make it look even more festive.

Lifesavers
Lifesavers are classic candy-coated rings that come in a variety of flavors, including cherry, pineapple, and watermelon. As with the other options mentioned above, Lifesavers can be used to create unique designs on your gingerbread house. Plus, they make great additions to any gingerbread house theme.

Pull n Peel Twizzlers
Pull n Peel Twizzlers are perfect for making intricate designs on your gingerbread house. The twirling tendrils of this candy can be used to craft a variety of shapes, including spirals, stars, and more. Plus, with the many different flavors available, you’ll make sure your gingerbread house stands out from the rest.

Nerds
Nerds are small, crunchy candy pieces that come in a variety of flavors like grape and strawberry. They make great additions to any gingerbread house design – just be careful when applying them as they can easily stick to the roof or walls of your creation.

M&Ms and Mini M&Ms
M&Ms and Mini M&Ms are perfect for adding a pop of color to your gingerbread house. Use mini M&Ms to create intricate patterns, or larger M&M’s to add big splashes of color.

Starlight Mints
Starlight Mints are a classic holiday candy that adds an extra bit of sweetness to your gingerbread house. The pastel colors and peppermint flavor make for a festive addition to any gingerbread house creation.

Mini Charleston Chews
Mini Charleston Chews are small, chewy candy pieces that come in a variety of flavors such as chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla. They make the perfect addition to any gingerbread house, especially when used to create intricate patterns or textures on the roof or walls.

Hot Tamales
Hot Tamales are a classic cinnamon-flavored candy that adds just the right amount of warmth to your gingerbread house. The bright red color and spicy flavor make them perfect for creating festive designs on your creation.

Mike & Ikes
Mike & Ikes are chewy, fruit-flavored candy pieces that come in a variety of colors and flavors. These candies make excellent additions to any gingerbread house, especially when used to create unique patterns or decorations.

Mini Candy Canes
Mini candy canes are a great way to add some traditional holiday flavor to your gingerbread house. You can use them to make festive patterns, or simply place them around the exterior of your creation for an extra bit of Christmas cheer.

Sweet Tarts
Sweet Tarts are small, tart-flavored candy pieces that come in a variety of colors and flavors. They make great additions to any gingerbread house and can be used to create intricate patterns or decorations.

Starburst
Starbursts are chewy, fruit-flavored candy pieces that come in four flavors: strawberry, cherry, orange and lemon. Use them to add vibrant colors and flavor to your gingerbread house – they’ll be sure to make any afternoon delightful.

Now that you know what types of candy are best for decorating gingerbread houses, go ahead and get creative with your holiday decorations. With the help of these sweet treats, you’ll be able to create a gingerbread house that will wow all of your guests this holiday season.
Where to buy candy for gingerbread houses?
If you’re looking for the perfect candy to decorate your gingerbread house, there are plenty of places you can shop online or visit in person. Grocery stores often have a wide variety of candy that is perfect for gingerbread houses. You may also want to check out local craft stores and specialty stores for unique candies and decorations. Of course, the internet has become a great resource for finding all sorts of candy, from classic favorites to more unusual options.
No matter where you shop, the important thing is that you have plenty of fun and creative options when it comes to decorating your gingerbread house. With so many choices available, you are sure to find something perfect for your holiday creation.
What other options you can use to decorate gingerbread houses?
In addition to candy, there are plenty of other options you can use to decorate gingerbread houses. These include:
- Sprinkles – Use colorful sprinkles to add a pop of color and texture to any design.
- Marshmallows – Cut marshmallows into shapes or use them as accents for your design. Just be sure to use them sparingly as they can be quite sweet.
- Gumdrops – Cut gumdrops into shapes or use them as decorations around the roof and walls of your house.
- Nuts & Seeds – Use nuts and seeds to create unique patterns on your gingerbread house. Pecans, almonds, and sunflower seeds are a great choice.
- Cookies & Wafers – Crumble cookies and wafers to create unique textures and patterns. You can also use them as a topping for gingerbread houses.
- Fondant – Use fondant to craft intricate designs on your gingerbread house. You can even make edible figurines to top off your creation.
With these extra options, you can create a truly unique gingerbread house that no one else will have. So don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different shapes and colors to make your design stand out from the rest this holiday season.

Conclusion: Best Candy for Gingerbread Houses
Gingerbread houses are a festive holiday tradition that everyone loves. For an extra special touch, use these tips and suggestions to make your gingerbread house stand out from the rest. With the right combination of candy and other edible decorations, you’ll be able to create a beautiful creation that will impress your family and friends. So don’t be afraid to get creative – have fun experimenting with different colors, shapes, and textures when decorating your gingerbread house this holiday season.
FAQ: Candy for Gingerbread Houses
How do you get candy to stick to a gingerbread house?
The best way to get candy to stick to a gingerbread house is to use royal icing. Royal icing is a type of icing that hardens when it dries, so it’s perfect for holding candy in place. Just pipe the icing onto the gingerbread house and then add the candy. The candy will stick to the icing and stay in place.
Can you use candy melts for gingerbread house?
Candy melts can be used for gingerbread houses, but they might not be the best option. Candy melts are made of chocolate, so they can be a bit messy. Plus, they might not harden when they dry, so the candy might not stay in place. If you do use candy melts, be sure to pipe them onto the gingerbread house and then add the candy. The candy will stick to the chocolate and stay in place.
Is it better to use chocolate or candy melts when decorating a gingerbread house?
Chocolate can be used when decorating a gingerbread house, but it might not be the best option. Chocolate can be a bit messy. Plus, it might not harden when it dries, so the candy might not stay in place. If you do use chocolate, be sure to pipe it onto the gingerbread house and then add the candy. The candy will stick to the chocolate and stay in place.
How to use m&m to decorate my gingerbread house?
M&Ms are a great way to decorate gingerbread houses. Just pipe the icing onto the gingerbread house and then add the M&Ms. The M&Ms will stick to the icing and stay in place.
What is the best candy for the roof of the gingerbread house?
The best candy for the roof of a gingerbread house is shingles. Shingles are thin, flat pieces of candy that look like real roof shingles. They come in a variety of colors, so you can really make your gingerbread house stand out. Plus, they’re easy to attach – just pipe some icing on the roof and then add the shingles.
What candy works well with gingerbread houses?
Round peppermint candies, malted milk balls, and white malted milk balls were used creatively to create the illusion of snowballs outside the house. For the roof, cut pieces of Fruit Striped Gum, also known as zebra gum, were utilized, resulting in an adorable outcome.
What is the best candy for gingerbread windows?
Similar to candy canes, peppermints create a delightful atmosphere during the winter holidays, making them an excellent choice for gingerbread houses. While they typically come in classic red and white, you can also find them in various other colors, including green. Utilize these circular peppermints to craft charming windows, a festive wreath, or even roof tiles.
Can you eat gingerbread house candy?
Absolutely. Our delectable gingerbread, sugar cookies, icing, and candies are not only visually appealing but also entirely edible. And let’s not forget, they taste absolutely delightful.
Can you use chocolate for gingerbread house?
For those with a creative drive, white chocolate can serve as a versatile building material for gingerbread houses. It not only securely holds the house pieces together but also acts as a reliable adhesive for attaching decorations.
How do you melt candy for gingerbread windows?
Separate the hard candies by color and place each color in its own resealable bag. Crush the bagged candies using a rolling pin. With only 5 minutes left for the gingerbread to bake, sprinkle a few crushed candies of each color into the cut-out windows. Allow the candy to melt during the remaining 5 minutes of baking.
Beatrice Payne is an editor for Earl’s Grocery, a sandwich restaurant with a focus on real food. She has worked in the publishing industry for many years and is passionate about helping businesses communicate their message effectively. Beatrice enjoys spending time with her family and friends, and loves exploring new restaurants.