Step 1

In a large bowl, combine flour, ginger, cinnamon, baking soda, nutmeg and salt.

Step 2

Using a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream butter, and brown sugar on medium. Mix until fluffy.

Step 3

Add in the molasses, then the egg and vanilla and mix until combined. Scrape the bowl down and mix once more.

Step 4

Add in flour gradually while mixing on low until a nice dough form until combined.

Step 5

Divide dough into two portions and roll into disks. Cover with plastic wrap.

Step 6

Refrigerate for about 4 hours or overnight. This step is important because the dough gets soft quickly and really needs to be thoroughly chilled.

Step 7

Preheat to 350 degrees F. Roll out chilled dough to about ¼-inch in thickness.

Step 8

Cut out gingerbread people/ shapes with a cookie cutter. Carefully transfer to a baking sheet.

Step 9

Bake cookies for 10 minutes. Let cool.

Step 10

Sift the powdered sugar and cream or tartar into a bowl then whisk together.

Step 11

Add the egg white in an mix together.

Step 12

Once combined, mix in a teaspoon of vanilla and then add water until desired consistency is reached. Transfer to a piping bag fitted with a small round tip or with the tip snipped off.

Step 13

Pipe decorations onto the cooled cookies with the royal icing.

Step 14

Attach sprinkles and or candies for added visual interest.

Step 15

If you made any cookies with bend arms swap out the foil for peppermint balls.