Tips and advice for decorating an IKEA Gingerbread House kit. A fun and easy festive activity—here’s how to make yours look really special!
At this time of year I always spend ages planning festive treats, then wonder where the time went. Decorating an IKEA gingerbread house is a quick, cheerful project that makes the season feel extra cosy. It’s also a great excuse to sample mince pies while you work.
This year I teamed up with BrummyMummyof2 for a Gingerbread House Challenge. Let’s just say an RE teacher didn’t stand a chance against a baker! I also made a short video showing how I decorated an IKEA kit, which I hope helps if you’re planning to do the same. These kits are straightforward, inexpensive and perfect for a cold, rainy afternoon—or as a family advent activity.
The video covers the best icing to use with an IKEA gingerbread house kit, tips for assembling the house, and easy decoration ideas to make your kit look special.
What you need to decorate your IKEA Gingerbread house:
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Decorate an IKEA Gingerbread House Kit
Ingredients
- An IKEA Gingerbread House kit
- Royal icing, made according to pack instructions
- Marshmallows
- White chocolate buttons
- Matchmakers
- Wine gums
- Chocolate mint thins
Instructions
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Watch the video for step‑by‑step guidance, then decorate the house however you like. Use royal icing to glue the walls and roof, and press sweets into the icing while it is still soft. Add marshmallows or chocolate pieces for extra detail. Be patient while the icing sets so your house stays sturdy.
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Share a photo of your finished house and tag the account mentioned in the video.
What I used to decorate the IKEA Gingerbread House kit:
Below are a few favourite items to consider when decorating: good royal icing (follow the packet instructions), a piping bag or zip bag with the corner snipped for piping, a selection of small sweets (chocolate buttons, wine gums, matchmakers, mint thins), and marshmallows for snowy details. Work on a flat surface covered with baking paper for easy clean-up.
If you enjoy this kind of project, save the idea for a cosy afternoon with family or friends. Decorating an IKEA gingerbread house is simple, affordable, and full of festive charm. Have fun and don’t worry about perfection—little imperfections make handmade decorations feel loved.