Are you ready to create the most delicious and eye-catching gingerbread house this year? Look no further! In this article, we’ll explore a variety of candy options to find the best ones for decorating your gingerbread house. From colorful gumdrops to festive M&Ms, get ready to be inspired by the endless possibilities. Whether you’re making your very own gingerbread house or bringing cheer to someone else’s home, these candies will make any afternoon delightful. So read on and discover some creative 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 traditionally used to decorate for the Christmas holiday. Made from sugar, butter, flour, eggs, and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, this sweet-smelling treat can be shaped into any desired form. The gingerbread house can be decorated with 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 decorating a gingerbread house, the options are endless. You can use gumdrops, M&Ms, candy canes, peppermint swirl candies, sprinkles, edible metallic beads, marshmallows, coconut for “snow,” cinnamon sticks, Hershey’s Kisses, chocolate chips, cereal pieces, and icing decorations. For a classic touch, try using gumdrops or jellied candies in festive hues like red and green. If you want to add something special, consider candy canes or mini chocolate Santas for some delightful whimsy.

Tips for using candy to decorate gingerbread houses

Here are some tips to keep in mind when using candy to decorate gingerbread houses:

  • To create stand-up decorations, pipe a small mound of icing and then insert the candy decoration.
  • Candy can be placed directly on freshly piped garlands or iced surfaces without additional icing.
  • Make sure your gingerbread house is assembled firmly and that all the pieces fit together tightly to ensure your decorations stay in place.
  • Feel free to get creative with your design! Experiment 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 add texture and interest to your design.
  • Use icing as an adhesive for all the pieces you are adding to the house to ensure they stay in place.
  • Take your time when decorating. Have patience and make sure each piece is firmly in place before adding more elements.
  • Use various tools like cookie cutters and toothpicks to help create intricate designs.
  • Most importantly, have fun! Decorating gingerbread houses is a great way to get creative and spend quality time with loved ones. Enjoy the process and make it a memorable experience.

14 Best Candy for Gingerbread Houses

Candy
Type Hard, Gummy, Chewy, Chocolate, Sour, Peppermint
Color Red, Green, White, Blue, Yellow, Orange, Pink, Brown
Size Small, Medium, Large
Shape Round, Square, Rectangular, Star, Heart, Bell, Candy Cane
Texture Smooth, Shiny, Matte, Glittery, Frosted
Adhesiveness Easy to glue, Requires melting, Needs water
Weather resistance Holds up well in humidity, Melts easily, Fades in sunlight
Flavor Sweet, Tart, Spicy, Minty, Chocolatey, Fruity, Nutty
Availability Easy to find, Seasonal, Specialty stores only
Cost Budget-friendly, Moderate price, Expensive
Fun factor Unique shape, Interactive, Edible pieces

When it comes to decorating your gingerbread house with candy, there are so many delicious options to choose from. Here are some of our favorite ideas:

Necco Wafers

Necco Wafers are a classic favorite and make the perfect decoration for gingerbread houses. These pastel-colored wafer candies come in seven different flavors and add vibrant colors to your gingerbread house design.

Gumdrops

Gumdrops are another great option for decorating gingerbread houses. These sweet treats come in a variety of colors and flavors, making them perfect for creating intricate designs on your gingerbread house.

Spree Candies

Spree candies are small, round candy pieces that are both crunchy and chewy. They come in a variety of colors and flavors, adding a festive touch to your gingerbread house design.

Lifesavers

Lifesavers are classic candy-coated rings that come in various flavors. Use them to create unique designs on your gingerbread house and add a pop of color.

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 crafted into spirals, stars, and more, adding a touch of whimsy to your creation.

Nerds

Nerds are small, crunchy candy pieces that come in a variety of flavors. Add them to your gingerbread house design for a burst of color and flavor.

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 them to create patterns or 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. Their pastel colors and peppermint flavor make for a festive addition.

Mini Charleston Chews

Mini Charleston Chews are small, chewy candy pieces that come in a variety of flavors. Use them to create intricate patterns or textures on the roof or walls of your gingerbread house.

Hot Tamales

Hot Tamales are classic cinnamon-flavored candy pieces that add warmth to your gingerbread house. Their bright red color and spicy flavor make them perfect for creating festive designs.

Mike & Ikes

Mike & Ikes are chewy, fruit-flavored candy pieces that come in various colors and flavors. They make excellent additions to any gingerbread house, especially when used for unique patterns or decorations.

Mini Candy Canes

Mini candy canes are perfect for adding a traditional holiday flavor to your gingerbread house. Use them to create festive patterns or simply place them around the exterior 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 for intricate patterns or decorations.

Starburst

Starbursts are chewy, fruit-flavored candy pieces that come in four flavors. Use them to add vibrant colors and flavor to your gingerbread house.

Now that you know the best candy options for decorating gingerbread houses, let your creativity flow! With these sweet treats, you’ll be able to create a gingerbread house masterpiece that will wow all 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 to shop. Grocery stores often have a wide variety of candy suitable for gingerbread houses. You can also check out local craft stores and specialty stores for unique candies and decorations. Of course, the internet is a great resource for finding all sorts of candy, from classic favorites to more unusual options.

What other options can you use to decorate gingerbread houses?

In addition to candy, there are many other options you can use to decorate gingerbread houses. These include spice drops, M&Ms, mini cookies, Hershey’s Kisses, candy canes, peppermints, sprinkles, gingerbread accents, and more. Let your imagination run wild and create a truly unique gingerbread house that reflects your personal style.

So gather your favorite candies and let the decorating fun begin! With these tips and ideas, you’ll be able to create a gingerbread house that will impress and delight everyone this holiday season.

Albion Morrison

Albion Morrison Founder : Earl’s Grocery is a sandwich restaurant that serves up Earl’s Real food. The atmosphere is comfortable and contemporary, making it the perfect place to enjoy a great meal.
Address: EARL’S GROCERY, 1609 ELIZABETH AVE, CHARLOTTE, NC 28204. Tel: (704) 333-2757
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