* Exported from MasterCook * Gingerbread Icing and Assembly Recipe By : TASTE OF HOME DEC/JAN 1996 Serving Size : 1 Preparation Time :0:00 Categories : Cookies Holiday Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method -------- ------------ -------------------------------- 8 cups confectioner's sugar 6 Tablespoons meringue powder* 3/4 cup warm water decorating bag 1 Large dot #12 decorating tip Spice jars Candies and cookies for decorating In a large mixing bowl, beat the sugar, meringue powder and 3/4 cup water on low until blended. Beat on high for 8-10 minutes or until stiff peaks form, adding additional water 1 Tablespoon at a time, if needed. Place a damp paper towel over bowl and cover tightly until ready to use. *Meringue powder is available where cake decorating supplies are sold, or you may contact Wilton Enterprises, 2240 W. 75th St., Woodridge, IL 60517; 1-708-963-7100. To assemble frame of the house: test your cookie pieces to make sure they fit together snugly. If necessary, file carefully with a serrated knife or an emery board to make fit. Fill decorating bag two-thirds full with icing. Beginning with the front of the house, squeeze a 3/8" wide strip of icing onto the bottom edge of the front piece. Position on the cookie base, 3" from the front edge of the base. Prop it upright with spice jars for 2-3 minutes or until icing hardens; remove jars. To add the sides, squeeze icing on lower edge of one side piece and side edge of the front piece. Align pieces at a right angle, making sure they are as tight as possible. Repeat with the other side. To add the back: squeeze icing on the bottom and side edges of the back piece; position with the other assembled pieces. For add stability, squeeze icing along the inside edge of all pieces and corners. To assemble the roof: working with one side at a time, squeeze icing on the upper edge of the slant of the front and b back pieces on one side. Also squeeze icing on the adjoining side piece. Carefully place roof piece on the slants so that the roof's peak is even with the points of the front and back (There should be an overhand of 1/2"). Repeat with other side of the roof. To decorate: add a chimney if desired. Decorate the house with remaining icing, candies and cookies of your choice. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -