Gingerbread People Recipe

Prep Time: 45 Minutes + Chilling
Bake Time: 10 Minutes Per Batch
Makes: 2 1/2 Dozen

Ingredients:
- 6 Tbsp. of Butter: Softened
- 3/4 Cup of Packed Dark Brown Sugar
- 1/2 Cup of Molasses
- 1 Egg
- 2 Tsp. of Vanilla Extract
- 1 Tsp. of Grated Lemon Peel
- 3 Cups of All-Purpose Flour
- 1 1/2 Tsp. of Baking Powder
- 1 1/4 Tsp. of Ground Cinnamon
- 3/4 Tsp. of Baking Soda
- 1/4 Tsp. of Salt
- 1/4 Tsp. of Ground Cloves
- Royal Icing (Recipe Below): Optional
- Assorted Candies: Optional

Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, cream butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in molasses, egg, vanilla and lemon peel. In another bowl, whisk flour, ginger, baking powder, cinnamon, baking soda, salt and cloves; gradually beat into creamed mixture. Divide dough in half. Shape each into a disk; wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for 30 minutes or until easy to handle.

2. Preheat oven to 350F. On a lightly floured surface, roll each portion to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut with a floured 4 inch gingerbread man cookie cutter.

3. Place 2 inches apart on greased baking sheets. Bake for 7 to 9 minutes or until edges are firm. Remove from pans to wire racks to cool completely. Decorate as desired.

Royal Icing:
In a bowl, combine 2 cups of Confectioners' sugar, 2 Tbsp plus 1 tsp. of Water, 4 1/2 Tsp of Meringue Powder and 1/4 Tsp. of Cream of Tartar; beat on low speed just until combined. Beat on high for 4 to 5 minutes or until stiff peaks form. If desired, tint with food coloring and pipe with a pastry bag. Makes 1 cup.

Bon Appetit!