The Sweet History of Gingerbread Houses

 

Merry Christmas, Friends!

The festive season is upon us, and with comes the tradition of gingerbread houses. These edible masterpieces have become an integral part of our Christmas celebrations worldwide, but have you ever wondered how they originated?

Gingerbread has its roots in medieval Europe, where it was a staple food among the wealthy. The spice trade had introduced exotic spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, which were highly prized for their flavor and preservative properties. Gingerbread was initially made with honey, which was a luxury item, making it accessible only to the affluent.

In the 16th Century, Queen Elizabeth I started the tradition of making gingerbread-shaped people to impress her visiting dignitaries. 

It soon became a staple at European fairs and markets where it was sold as a sweet treat. The introduction of sugar in the 16th century made gingerbread even more popular, as it became more affordable to the masses.

In Germany, there are two versions of gingerbread, also known as lebkuchen. One version is a soft cookie, and the other is a harder cookie.

The harder lebkuchen is usually made in a heart shape and inscribed with love messages written in icing. They are sold at street markets around Christmas in many towns in Germany and have become a token of love to give to a partner.

The tradition of making gingerbread houses originated in Germany, where bakers would create elaborate houses. Gingerbread guilds were formed and only these guilds were allowed to make gingerbread.  Laws enforced by these guilds made the creation of gingerbread houses only during specific time periods surrounding Christmas and the new year, which is where the connection between gingerbread and Christmas first began over 400 years ago. Seen as a symbol of good luck and prosperity, bakers competed to create the most elaborate and intricate designs which were baked and then assembled using royal icing.

 

In turn, this tradition was popularized by the Brothers Grimm's fairy tale "Hansel and Gretel," which features a witch who lives in a house made of gingerbread and candy.

The tradition was brought to America by German immigrants in the 18th century, where it evolved into the gingerbread house kits we know today. The kits typically include pre-baked gingerbread pieces, royal icing, and candy.

On a world-wide scale, gingerbread house competitions have become increasingly popular, with many events held around the world. The National Gingerbread House Competition, held annually in Asheville, North Carolina, attracts competitors from around the globe.

 

    2025 National Gingerbread House Winner

Gingerbread houses have come a long way from their medieval originals. From a simple treat for the wealthy to a beloved Christmas tradition, gingerbread houses have evolved into a fun and festive activity for families around the world.

P.S. It's not too late to create a gingerbread house with your family. The children are home from school, the shopping, cooking, and baking are done. Let's have some fun creating a gingerbread house and some memories!

 

Here's a present from me to you...

"A Sleigh Ride for Claire" is free beginning today December 25th through Tuesday, December 29th! Merry Christmas and Happy Reading!

He was the most stubborn and prideful man she’d ever met.
She was a busybody who stuck her nose in his business at every turn!
With Christmas on the horizon, Claire McAllister has far too much to do to entertain dreams of a husband and family. Even if she feels inclined to help Lincoln Wyse outwit his three mischievous young daughters, it's impossible to imagine the handsome widower seeing her as anything but a scolding schoolteacher.

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Yet, neither one can imagine how three little, mischievous matchmakers and a magical Christmas Eve sleigh ride will open their eyes to love…or how the Lord will awaken their faith and hope.

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