Have you ever made a gingerbread house? Gingerbread houses probably originated back in Germany during the 16th century. At that time, the elaborate cookie-walled houses were decorated with foil and gold leaf. Some people believe the origin of gingerbread houses are related to the popular fairy tale known as Hansel and Gretel. Over time, the houses became associated with Christmas traditions. Speaking of the holidays, Christmas is nearly here! Are you ready to get away to enjoy a holiday vacation in Mexico? If you are, online travel agency Amazing Mexico at (866) 883-0573 has low-cost travel packages available to enjoy a last minute vacation in Mexico. Give Amazing Mexico a call at (866) 883-0573 and surprise your family with a wonderful and relaxing vacation to Mexico. In the meantime, keep reading more about the tradition of making gingerbread houses.

 

 

Origins of Gingerbread Houses

According to some historians, many people believe the first gingerbread house was inspired by the well-known Grimm’s fairy tale “Hansel and Gretel.” In this tale, two children are abandoned in the forest and come across an edible bread house with sugar decorations. However, it is unclear whether gingerbread houses were inspired by the popular fairy tale, or if they already existed and the author simply included them in his book. At the time of the book being published, gingerbread was already used to make different forms of art. However, German bakers took it to the next level and created the traditional design that is used today. Nowadays, friends and family come together and spend joyous moments creating and decorating gingerbread houses during the holidays. They are so popular that ready to make kits are even available with easy to put together houses and tons of fun edible candy decorations, too.

Where Did Gingerbread Come From?

Did you know that gingerbread has been around for thousands of years? Gingerbread was first prepared during the time of ancient Greeks and Egyptians for ceremonial purposes. Supposedly, the first known recipe for gingerbread came from Greece way back in 2400 BC. In addition, Chinese recipes were developed during the 10th century and late Middle Ages that also included many of the ingredients found in today’s gingerbread. Long before it became a holiday treat, gingerbread was a favorite treat for royals and a symbol of fertility. Supposedly, the pudgy gingerbread man with candy eyes and icing smile even has a sinister link to death and the demonic and may have been utilized as a tool for witch spells. Later, gingerbread showed up in Europe after 11th-century Crusaders brought ginger back from the Middle East. Then, Europeans came up with their own version of gingerbread that is still used today.

Christmas Traditions

These days, making gingerbread houses is a popular Christmas tradition for many families. Houses are typically made in the days and weeks before Christmas by using pieces of baked gingerbread dough or gingerbread crackers. Next, melted sugar is used to secure the sides of the walls and roofs, and white frosting will help keep the pieces stuck together. Then, the gingerbread houses will be decorated with a variety of candy including jelly beans, peppermint mints, and more. Even the yard surrounding the house will often be decorated with icing to represent snow. Why not get the whole family together and spend a few hours creating a cute and beautiful gingerbread house together? It’s a fun and creative way to spend quality time with your loved ones this holiday season.

 

 

Christmas is nearly here and it’s time to get in the holiday spirit with your loved ones. Make sure to decorate your house with Christmas decorations, put your tree up, and don’t forget to make a gingerbread house, too. If you want to head to sunny Mexico to escape the cold this winter holiday season, remember to call Amazing Mexico at (866) 883-0573 to take advantage of special travel packages on sale right now.The reputable travel agency works with the country’s best resorts in top destinations such as the Riviera Maya, Puerto Vallarta, Cabo, and Loreto. Plus, resorts have COVID safety measures in place so you can feel safe to take your family on vacation without putting your health at risk. Call Amazing Mexico at (866) 883-0573 and book a last minute vacation to Mexico today!