Gingerbread Persons

 

Rosie helped make this year's gingerbread persons. All 220 of them.

Of course, without Suzanne, they'd be plain or ordinary.

And that's not the kind of place that Mary's Cakes is. Neither plain nor ordinary.

So every year, about this time, we mix up a batch of gingerbread cookie dough and roll out the naked bodies.

Then we mix up a really big batch of royal icing, and Suzanne gets to work clothing each one in his or her unique costume.

Each one is different, but there are themes.

There are always Bama and Auburn fans (Suzanne went to BOTH UA and AU). Party persons with tacky Christmas sweaters and pinstripes and bow ties. Glamorous gals in swimsuits and evening gowns. Funky folks in all types of sportswear and Hawaiian shirts.

And of course there are brides in off-the shoulder dresses and veils, holding bouquets.

She adds incredible details like Pearls. And flip flops. And wristwatches. And hats. You never know what her mind will come up with next.

This year there is even a pirate with an eye patch and sword, a ship's mate with a striped shirt, and a mermaid.

Plus Santa (with a big "S" on his belt buckle).

When the icing dries, we attach a ribbon for hanging on the tree (better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it...) and package each person in a protective celophane bag tied with another ribbon.

They are suitable for hanging on the tree, but also deliciously edible.

Come on down and pick out your favorite. They'll be ready and hanging from our tree at Dickens Downtown.

Or make your own. Here's the smaller version of Rosie's Recipe...

GINGERBREAD PERSONS

Shortening	1 c.
Granulated Sugar	1 c.
Dark Molasses	1 c.
Cold Water	1/4 c.
All Purpose flour	6 c.
Ground Ginger	2 tsp.
Ground Cinnamon	2 tsp.
Salt	1 tsp.

Cream shortening, sugar and molasses. Add cold water and mix thoroughly. Add Dry ingredients and mix to incorporate.

Roll out and bake at 350F until done, about 10 minutes. Makes about 2 dozen.

Decorate with royal icing.

Note: Dough rolls and cuts better if slightly chilled. Pierce head  with straw or decorating tip before baking if you plan to add a ribbon to tie on the tree.

Comments

[Susan]

Wow! What artistry!