If you want to add some Scandinavian charm to your holiday baking this season, why not try your hand at creating Brunkagehuse Danish Gingerbread Houses? These aromatic and spiced little houses are a beloved tradition in Denmark, where they are enjoyed by both kids and adults alike during the festive Christmas season. The delightful blend of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves will fill your kitchen with irresistible scents, bringing warmth and coziness to your home. Making Brunkagehuse is a fun and creative activity that can be enjoyed alone or with loved ones, and the end result is not only delicious but also makes for charming edible decorations. So, gather your ingredients and let’s get started on crafting your very own Danish Gingerbread Houses.
**Ingredients:**
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger
– 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
– 1/2 cup dark corn syrup
– 1 large egg
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Dough:**
– In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
– In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
– Add the corn syrup and egg to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well until smooth.
– Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a stiff dough forms.
2. **Chill the Dough:**
– Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each into a flat disc.
– Wrap the dough discs in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
3. **Roll and Cut the Dough:**
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
– Working with one dough disc at a time, roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
– Use gingerbread house cookie cutters to cut out the house shapes, making sure to cut two of each shape for each house.
4. **Bake the Gingerbread Houses:**
– Place the cut-out gingerbread shapes onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them apart.
– Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
– Remove from the oven and allow the gingerbread houses to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. **Assemble and Decorate:**
– Once the gingerbread houses are completely cooled, it’s time to assemble them.
– Use royal icing as “glue” to put the walls and roof pieces together, holding them in place until the icing sets.
– Let your creativity shine as you decorate your gingerbread houses with more royal icing, candies, sprinkles, and other edible decorations.
6. **Enjoy and Share:**
– Display your beautifully crafted Brunkagehuse Danish Gingerbread Houses as part of your holiday decor, or give them as thoughtful homemade gifts to family and friends.
– These adorable edible houses are not just for show; enjoy the delicious flavor of these spiced cookies with a warm cup of cocoa or spiced cider.
There you have it – the delightful recipe for making Brunkagehuse Danish Gingerbread Houses. This Christmas season, bring a touch of Scandinavian sweetness to your home with these charming treats that are as fun to make as they are to eat. Get your apron on, gather your loved ones, and create memories while crafting these cozy holiday delights. Enjoy the baking process and savor the joy of sharing homemade goodness with those you care about. Happy baking!
