Easy peasy gingerbread “man” recipe helps create holiday memories

When you think about making gingerbread men or houses, you might think that the dough must be rolled out, then cut with cookie cutters. Kind of a pain. 

Decades ago, mom found a recipe that may be handled like Play-Doh. No rolling, no cutting, just freehand any shape you want. Not only did we do this at Christmas time, but we also did it in July for my birthday.  Each kid would get a ball of dough and a sheet of aluminum foil about the size of a cookie sheet. Stars, horses, cowgirls, boots, snow people, cats, etc. were made. Then decorated with candy and baked. For the parties each kid got to take their gingerbread creation home. The creativity is one of the best parts.   

It is best not to make anything that is more than ½ inch thick. The raw figure increases in size by at least double when it is cooked. If you make a figure that takes up most of the cookie sheet sized foil just keep a couple of inches from the edges.  But again, you are free handing it, so you’ll just estimate the thickness. It is ok if it is thicker. Just know it is going to get really big. 

The gingerbread thing is a favorite tradition of hers, her kids, grandkids and great grandkids. The “party” brings everyone of different ages together and the day is full of laughter.  She hopes by next year, her great great granddaughter, Covey, who will be two, will make one. Mom said to tell you all that the gingerbread taste good, too. 

1 cup sugar

¾ cup shortening 

Pinch of salt 

1 egg (add another egg if too dry) 

2 T. molasses 

1 tsp ginger 

1 tsp ginger

½ tsp cloves

1 ½ tsp baking soda

2 ½ cups flour 

Cream sugar and shortening. Add molasses and eggs. Beat until smooth. Sift dry ingredients and add to first mixture. Mold your own original figure on aluminum foil or cookie sheet. Add candy eyes, buttons, etc. Bake at 350 degrees for 10-15 minutes.