Surely, we’re not the only ones who — after listening to the fairy tale of Hansel and Gretel — dreamt of a house made of gingerbread, decorated with sprinkles and candies? For sugar-laced dreams like these, there’s Gingerbread House Day that’s celebrated in Europe and the USA on December 12, possibly as an ode to the tradition of crafting gingerbread houses that started in Germany in the 1800s. Now, gingerbread is synonymous with Christmas in India, too. Manpreet Dhody, co-founder at I’M Wholesome, a platform that curates hampers, platters, gourmet gifting and meals, points out that among the many reasons behind its popularity, is the fact that ginger helps increase the shelf-life of cookies and breads. “Gingerbread house also has references in Hansel & Gretel,” explains Dhody, sharing how to bake a gingerbread house.

Gingerbread house (eggless)

Ingredients
For the dough:
>> 125 gm unsalted butter
>> 1/2 cup brown sugar 
>> 2/3 cup golden syrup 
>> 2 1/2 cup plain flour 
>> 2 tsp ground ginger 
>> 1 tsp baking soda