A Sweet and Strong Gingerbread House Glue: Gummy Bear Icing

Building a gingerbread house is a delightful holiday tradition, yet ensuring the structure holds together can be a challenge. Traditional royal icing, while delicious, often fails to provide the necessary strength to hold the walls, windows, and roofs in place as it dries. Enter a fascinating and delectable alternative: gummy bear glue. This innovative method not only ensures your gingerbread house stands tall but also tastes good as a tasty addition to the structure.

Why Royal Icing Isn't Always Reliable

Traditionally, royal icing was used as the binding agent for gingerbread houses. However, it has its drawbacks. As it dries, the structural components can sag, crack, or even collapse. This issue is particularly frustrating when you've spent hours meticulously crafting every detail. The search for a better solution led to the creation of gummy bear glue, a technique that combines the adhesive properties of gummy bears with the delicious flavors of your holiday dessert.

How to Make Gummy Bear Glue

The process of making gummy bear glue is both simple and surprising. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating this unique icing:

Ingredients

Gummy bears (about 7-10) Water (enough to cover the gummy bears) Hand-held blender Spatula for applying

Instructions

Place the gummy bears in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the gummy bears with water and microwave on high until the gummy bears are soft and the water is warm. Remove the bowl from the microwave and let it cool slightly if necessary. Using your hand-held blender, mix the gummy bear solution until it is thoroughly blended. Use a small spatula to carefully press the gummy bear glue onto the gingerbread pieces, adhering them together to form walls, windows, and roofs. Continue applying the glue to all sides of your gingerbread house, ensuring that every piece is securely held in place. For added elegance, you may choose to cover the gummy bear glue with a layer of royal icing for a more traditional look.

Tips and Tricks

Storage: Store the remaining gummy bear glue in an airtight container in the refrigerator to use it later. Application: Apply the gummy bear glue in thin, even layers to avoid lumps and to ensure a smooth application. Special Effects: Use royal icing to add intricate details and decorations to your gingerbread house.

Benefits of Using Gummy Bear Glue

The use of gummy bear glue offers several advantages:

Durable Structure: Gummy bear glue provides a strong bond, ensuring that your gingerbread house stands tall and does not collapse during holidays or display. Taste: Unlike traditional royal icing, which can sometimes lack flavor, gummy bear glue adds a sweet, fruity taste to your gingerbread structure, making it a delightful treat for both decoration and enjoyment. Creative Freedom: With gummy bear glue, you can experiment with different shapes, sizes, and designs, adding a playful and whimsical touch to your gingerbread house.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use flavored gummy bears for the gummy bear glue?

A: Yes, using flavored gummy bears can add a unique flavor to your gingerbread house. Experiment with different flavors to create a personalized holiday dessert.

Q: Is the gummy bear glue safe to eat?

A: Yes, the gummy bear glue is perfectly safe to eat. However, use it solely for holding the gingerbread house together and not for direct consumption.

Q: How long does the gummy bear glue last?

A: The gummy bear glue can be stored in the refrigerator for several weeks. Always ensure it remains refrigerated and tightly sealed to maintain its adhesive properties.

Building a gingerbread house with gummy bear glue is a fun and creative way to celebrate the holiday season. Enjoy the delicious taste and the added durability it provides to your gingerbread creations. Happy decorating!