Gingerbread houses are a popular holiday tradition that combines baking with creative decorating. They are edible model houses made from gingerbread cookie walls, roofs, and candy decorations. Many people enjoy building them for fun, decoration, or as a festive activity with family and friends.
The tradition started in Germany in the 1800s and has since spread around the world. Gingerbread house kits and recipes vary widely, offering different levels of difficulty and design options. Some come pre-made and ready to assemble, while others require baking and cutting shapes from scratch.
When choosing a gingerbread house or kit, the critical things to consider are the quality of the gingerbread for durability and taste, the type of icing for holding parts together, and the variety or quality of candy decorations. Size and complexity also matter depending on who will be building it and how much time is available. We tested several kits and homemade methods to find the best options for enjoyable and sturdy gingerbread houses.
Best Gingerbread Houses
We have researched and tested many gingerbread house kits to find the best ones for all skill levels. Whether you want a simple design or a detailed set, our list covers great options for your holiday fun.
1. Nabisco E-Z Build Gingerbread House Kit
This kit is a solid choice for a quick and easy gingerbread house project that the whole family can enjoy together.
Pros
- No baking needed, so setup is fast and mess-free
- Comes with a sturdy tray and roof holder that make assembly simple
- Includes fun candy and icing to customize your design
Cons
- Candy supply feels a bit limited for bigger decorating ideas
- Icing pouch can run out before finishing the whole house
- Cookies are better for building than eating
We liked how straightforward the kit was to use. The E-Z Build tray keeps the wall pieces steady, which helped us avoid frustration during assembly. It’s great when you want to skip baking but still want the fun of decorating.
The candy pieces are bright and colorful but could have been more plentiful. If you love adding lots of detail, you might want extras on hand. The icing held the house together well, though the amount was a bit small for our finishing touches.
Overall, it makes a nice holiday activity that gets creative skills going. Plus, the bonus CHIPS AHOY! Snack Pack is a tasty treat after the work is done. This kit stands out for easy setup and keeping kids happily busy.
2. Taboom Gingerbread House Kit
This kit is a simple and fun way for us to build a festive gingerbread house without any baking.
Pros
- Pieces are pre-cut for easy assembly
- Suitable for all ages, great for families
- Comes with everything needed, including icing
Cons
- Some reports of broken pieces on arrival
- Size is not as large as expected
- Frosting can run out quickly if used heavily
We found the pre-cut gingerbread pieces really helped keep the build simple and less messy. It made it easy for kids and adults to join in without stress. The icing included was enough for light decorating, but if you want to go all out, more supplies might be needed.
The kit’s design is straightforward, so it didn’t take long for us to put the house together. Plus, the plastic tray it comes with made it stable as we decorated. However, a few boxes arrived with broken pieces, so checking your kit on arrival is a good idea.
Overall, the kit delivers a fun holiday activity you can enjoy together. It’s ideal if you want a ready-to-use gingerbread house that the whole family can create without baking or complicated steps.
3. NABISCO Holiday Cookie House Kits
These kits are a fun, easy way for us to build festive holiday houses without baking.
Pros
- Ready to assemble with sturdy cookie pieces
- Includes both OREO and SOUR PATCH KIDS decorating kits
- Comes with icing and candy for creative decorating
Cons
- Candy supply can feel a bit small
- Icing may run out before decorating is finished
- Cookie parts taste better as decoration than to eat
We enjoyed how simple it was to start decorating right out of the box. The cookie walls were firm and easy to handle, so building the house didn’t get messy or frustrating. The included icing was strong enough to hold the pieces firmly.
The mix of OREO and SOUR PATCH KIDS brought variety and fun to the decorating. The icing had a good texture for piping, and the candies added color and flair that kids loved. However, we wished the candy packs were larger to allow more detailed decorations.
Overall, this kit is a great choice for gatherings and makes a neat holiday activity. It’s not just about the taste, but the creative experience of building and decorating with familiar treats.
4. GingerKits Gingerbread House Kit
This kit is a simple and fun way for us to build and decorate gingerbread houses without the hassle of baking.
Pros
- Pre-baked pieces make assembly quick and easy
- Comes with colorful candy and icing for decoration
- Suitable for kids and adults, great for family time
Cons
- Houses are smaller than expected, about 5.5 inches
- Candy decorations are limited in quantity
- Only two houses included per set
Putting together the GingerKits gingerbread house kit felt straightforward. The pre-baked gingerbread was nicely baked, so we didn’t have to wait or worry about cookies breaking.
Decorating was enjoyable since the icing was ready to use and the candy pieces added good color and variety, though more candy options would have made it more exciting.
The smaller size means these houses work better as small table decorations or snacks rather than big showpieces. It’s a fun activity for a cozy night but not for bigger displays.
5. SEWANTA Gingerbread House Kit
This kit is a solid choice for families who want a no-fuss, ready-to-build gingerbread house with plenty of decorations.
Pros
- Comes with everything you need, so no extra baking or prep is required
- Kid-friendly design with pre-grooved panels makes assembly easy
- Includes colorful candies and icing for fun decorating
Cons
- Some users report occasional cracked pieces on arrival
- The icing application could be tricky without a proper tip
- Houses are smaller than some other kits we tried
We found this kit very convenient since it arrives with prebaked gingerbread parts and includes all decorating materials. It saved us time and the typical mess of rolling dough or mixing icing. The pre-grooved design helped even younger kids stay on track while building.
The assortment of candies is a big plus, offering a good mix of shapes and colors that made the decorating very creative and fun. The icing worked well as an edible glue, though applying it took some practice without an icing tip.
While the houses are on the smaller side, they make a great starter project or gift. Just be careful when unpacking as a few pieces may arrive cracked for some buyers. Overall, it made a festive, low-stress holiday activity for us that we would recommend.
6. Taboom Gingerbread Mini Village
This kit is a great choice if you want a simple, fun way to build a festive gingerbread scene with your family without extra prep.
Pros
- Four small houses make decorating less overwhelming.
- Comes with everything needed—no extra tools or ingredients.
- Easy assembly works well for kids and adults alike.
Cons
- Some pieces were fragile during shipping.
- Smaller houses mean less space for detailed decorating.
- Icing can dry out if not used quickly.
Putting this kit together felt smooth and enjoyable. Having four mini houses gave us a nice variety to play with, and the cookie panels fit together without fuss. The included icing acted like glue, holding the pieces firmly without mess.
Decorating was straightforward, thanks to the ready-made icing and colorful candy. We liked that no baking or complicated steps were needed—perfect for a quick holiday activity that anyone can join.
It makes a charming centerpiece once complete. The small size fits well on counters or tables, creating a warm holiday look. It’s also nice that these can be gifted easily because they’re individually wrapped and ready to go.
If you want a clean, easy way to craft a festive scene, Taboom Gingerbread Mini Village delivers with no extra hassle.
7. Sarah’s Candy Factory Gingerbread House Kit
This kit is a good choice if you want a simple, ready-made gingerbread house that’s fun to build and decorate with family or friends.
Pros
- Comes with all the pieces pre-baked and ready to use
- Colorful candies and icing make decorating easy and fun
- Good size for kids and adults to enjoy together
Cons
- Some kits arrive with broken gingerbread pieces
- The house is on the smaller side, not very large
- Candy and icing could be a bit sparse for more detailed decorating
We found the assembly to be pretty straightforward. The instructions are clear and easy to follow, which makes it a good activity for kids and adults alike. It’s nice to have the gingerbread pre-baked, so there’s no wait or extra mess in the kitchen.
The decoration set includes a nice variety of candies that brightened up our finished house. However, we noticed the candy amount was just enough, so if you want to get really creative, you might need to buy extras.
One downside is the fragile nature of the gingerbread. A few kits arrived with cracked or broken pieces, which can make assembly tricky and a bit frustrating. Still, with careful handling, it’s a fun seasonal project that works well as a gift or party activity.
8. GingerKits Large Gingerbread House Kit
This kit is a straightforward and fun choice for anyone wanting an easy, mess-free holiday activity with tasty results.
Pros
- All pieces are pre-baked for quick set-up
- Grooves guide the assembly, making it simple
- Comes with colorful candy and ready-to-use icing
Cons
- Large size might be tricky for very young kids alone
- Some candies are small and can get lost easily
- Can be a bit pricey compared to simpler kits
We found this gingerbread house kit really easy to put together. Since everything was pre-baked, there was no need to wait or deal with sticky dough. The grooves made snapping the pieces into place almost foolproof, which helped keep things stress-free.
The candy decorations looked festive and added nice pops of color. It was fun to let kids and adults decorate together. We appreciated that the icing was ready to use, avoiding extra mess or prep time.
After building and decorating, it was nice to snack on the gingerbread itself. The flavor was classic and enjoyable. This kit is a solid pick for families or groups who want a quick, festive project with little hassle.
9. Mini Village Gingerbread House Kit
This kit is a simple and fun way to build and decorate multiple gingerbread houses without any baking.
Pros
- Everything is pre-baked and ready to decorate
- Good for family activities and kids can easily join in
- Comes with icing, candies, and a display tray included
Cons
- Icing can be too runny, making assembly tricky
- Candy supply is a bit small for a full village look
- Some pieces might arrive broken or fragile
We found this gingerbread house kit to be very convenient since no baking or mixing was needed. The pre-cut pieces made putting the houses together easier, even for younger family members. It’s nice to jump straight into the decorating without extra fuss.
Decorating was fun, but the icing didn’t always hold the pieces well, so patience was required. We also wished there were more candies included to create a fuller look. Still, the gingerbread has a nice ginger-cinnamon flavor that added to the holiday spirit.
Overall, this kit works well for group fun or a classroom activity. It’s a great affordable option if you want to avoid the baking step but still enjoy building a festive gingerbread village together.
10. SEWANTA Gingerbread House Kit
This gingerbread house kit is a good choice if you want a large, ready-to-decorate set that keeps kids busy, but some parts may break and icing can be tricky to use.
Pros
- Large size offers plenty of decorating fun
- Pre-baked pieces make assembly quicker
- Includes lots of candy and decorations in one kit
Cons
- Some gingerbread parts can arrive broken
- Icing glue may not stick well to cookie pieces
- Not all decorations stay firmly attached
We liked that the kit is big and comes with everything needed for a holiday activity. The embossed, pre-grooved panels made it easy for kids to know where to place decorations. It’s nice not having to bake or make icing from scratch.
On the downside, we found the icing wasn’t very sticky, which made it hard to get the candies to stay put. Also, some pieces arrived cracked, so assembly took longer than expected or wasn’t fully possible.
Overall, this kit works well for a family craft time where kids can be creative, but you might want extra icing or candies on hand just in case. It offers good value for the large size and festive decorations.
11. Kurt Adler Light Up Gingerbread House
This lighted gingerbread house adds a cozy, festive glow to any room and looks great on a holiday table or shelf.
Pros
- Realistic look with glitter and candy cane details
- Warm LED light shines through all sides
- Durable and well-made with solid materials
Cons
- Batteries are not included
- No built-in timer for automatic shutoff
- Light switch can be a bit tricky to use
We found this gingerbread house to be a charming addition to our holiday décor. The details like the holly window planters and icing look very realistic. It has a nice balanced size—big enough to notice but not so large it takes over the space.
The battery-operated LED glows warmly and casts soft light through all the windows. It really creates a cozy feeling, although we wish it had a timer to save batteries. Also, the on/off switch needed a few tries before the light caught.
Overall, this piece feels solid and well built. The finish and glitter give it a polished, festive vibe we appreciated during our seasonal setup. It’s an easy piece to recommend for anyone wanting a neat, lit gingerbread house for the holidays.
12. Raz Imports Gingerbread House
This gingerbread house is a great choice if you want a festive, lighted decoration that feels cozy and fits well on a tabletop.
Pros
- Looks very realistic with nice details
- The light feature with timer is handy and easy to use
- Perfect size—not too big or small for holiday displays
Cons
- Requires batteries, which might run out quickly
- The clay dough material feels fragile if not handled carefully
- Timer resets every 18 hours, which can be slightly inconvenient
We found the Raz Imports Gingerbread House charming and festive. Its small size makes it easy to place almost anywhere, and the soft light inside adds a warm glow that really enhances holiday vibes.
The detail on the house is impressive. The candy cane heart and little touches like glitter bring a real gingerbread feel without any mess. It easily became a favorite piece in our Christmas setup.
The battery-powered light with a timer is useful, but remember to have extra AA batteries on hand. Also, since it’s ceramic and clay, we made sure to handle it gently to avoid chips. Overall, it’s a cozy holiday decoration worth considering.
13. Wilton Petite Gingerbread House Kit
This kit is good for a quick, small gingerbread house project if you don’t want to bake but expect some fragile pieces.
Pros
- Ready-made gingerbread pieces save time
- Comes with icing, candies, and decorating supplies
- Small size is perfect for younger kids or quick crafts
Cons
- Pieces can arrive broken or fragile
- Candy decorations are very small and tricky to handle
- Kit size is quite small, not for large displays
We found the Wilton Petite kit easy to assemble since all the gingerbread parts were pre-baked. This made for a fun, quick activity without the mess of baking. The decorating supplies and candies that come with it are good enough for simple designs.
However, handling the gingerbread felt delicate. We noticed some pieces could break easily, especially during shipping. Also, the small candies required careful placing and were a bit fiddly for younger hands.
Because it is small, it suits quick builds or craft time with kids who have shorter attention spans. For bigger or more robust gingerbread houses, this kit might feel too limited. Overall, it’s a handy option if you want a fuss-free, fast holiday project.
14. Create-A-Treat E-Z Build Gingerbread House Kit
This kit is a simple and fun way for families to build a gingerbread house together, though the size and icing strength can be limiting.
Pros
- Easy to assemble, great for kids and beginners
- Comes from a peanut and tree nut free facility, safer for allergies
- Includes a nice variety of candies and clear instructions
Cons
- Gingerbread pieces can arrive broken
- Icing sometimes doesn’t hold walls firmly
- Smaller size than expected for the price
We found the kit easy to put together, especially for younger kids. The icing is simple to use and the candies add a festive touch. It’s convenient that the kit is made in a nut-free facility, which helps with allergy concerns.
However, the gingerbread pieces feel fragile. A few arrived cracked and some walls had trouble sticking with the icing. The house ended up smaller than what we thought ‘medium’ would be, which surprised us given the price.
Overall, it’s a decent choice if you want a quick and safe activity with kids. Just be prepared for a delicate build and plan to handle any broken pieces carefully.
15. Sheaifun Gingerbread House
We found this gingerbread house a charming and sturdy addition to holiday decorations that adds warmth with its soft LED lights.
Pros
- Realistic look with detailed “frosting” and window cutouts
- Gentle lights create a cozy mood without being too bright
- Durable resin material that stays nice through the season
Cons
- Lights require your own AA batteries, which are not included
- Larger size takes up noticeable space on tables or shelves
- No assembly needed but can be heavy to move once placed
This gingerbread house caught our eye right away with its classic design and warm colors. It fits nicely on a coffee table or a bookshelf and blends well with other Christmas décor.
We liked how the built-in LED lights give a soft glow, making the room feel cozy at night without glare. The resin material feels solid and easy to clean, so it looks good for years.
Though it does need batteries and takes some space, it feels like a quality piece. It brings a festive spirit that’s hard to get from smaller or flimsier decorations.
If you want a well-made, charming gingerbread house that lights up your holiday space, this one is worth considering.
16. Pawliss Light-Up Gingerbread Houses
This set is a charming choice if you want a classic, glowing gingerbread village that is easy to set up and gentle on space.
Pros
- Comes with warm LED lights already installed and extra batteries included
- Lightweight resin makes arranging and moving the houses simple
- Battery powered, no cords needed which keeps the setup neat
Cons
- Only a few customer reviews, so feedback is limited
- The light brightness is soft, not very strong if you prefer a brighter display
- Small size might not stand out in bigger holiday setups
We found the Pawliss gingerbread houses create a cozy vibe quickly. The warm white lights glow softly, making them feel very inviting on a winter table or shelf. Having the batteries pre-installed is a nice bonus since it saves time.
Each house is carefully made with detailed candy-like accents that look realistic up close. The resin feels sturdy but light enough to rearrange without hassle. The compact design is great for small spaces but might be overlooked in a large room.
We liked how easy they are to use with the simple on/off switch and no wires to worry about. They fit well with other holiday decorations and add a subtle, sweet touch. For anyone wanting a neat, classic gingerbread village without too much fuss, this set works well.
17. QCBF Gingerbread House LED Decoration
This gingerbread house is a solid choice if you want a festive, cozy look with built-in LED lights that brighten up any holiday setup.
Pros
- Soft pottery material feels durable and looks nice
- Battery-powered LED adds warmth without wires
- Works well as a standalone piece or part of a bigger display
Cons
- Light switch is hard to reach on the bottom
- LED sometimes flickers on and off unexpectedly
- Moderate size may be small for some room settings
We found this gingerbread house charming and well-made. The soft pottery gives it a nice weight and texture. It doesn’t feel cheap or fragile, which is good if you plan to use it for several seasons.
The LED light inside adds a pleasant, soft glow that makes the house feel inviting. Since it runs on batteries, placing it anywhere is simple and neat. Still, we noticed that the switch on the bottom can be tricky to handle, especially once the piece is positioned.
In our setup, this decoration looked great on tables or shelves. It fits well with other holiday pieces and adds a gentle, festive vibe. Just be aware the light flicker might bother those wanting steady illumination. Overall, it’s a charming addition that brings some warmth and holiday spirit to our home.
18. SEWANTA Gingerbread Mini Village Kit
This kit is a good choice if you want an easy and fun gingerbread activity that comes with everything ready to go for kids and families.
Pros
- Comes with all decorating items included
- Pre-baked and pre-grooved for easy assembly
- Good size for children to handle and decorate
Cons
- Houses are smaller than expected
- Gingerbread can be crumbly and fragile
- Requires patience for icing glue to dry properly
We found this gingerbread kit to be really straightforward to use. The fact that the houses come pre-baked saved us a lot of baking time. Kids liked following the grooves, which made decorating less frustrating.
The assortment of icing and candies gave plenty of options to get creative, and the flavor had a nice ginger and cinnamon taste. However, the gingerbread itself felt delicate, so we had to be gentle during assembly.
One tricky part was waiting long enough for the icing to dry before moving the houses around. Overall, it was a festive and enjoyable project for our family, especially if you want a stress-free holiday craft.
19. SunArtHome Gingerbread Train
This charming gingerbread train adds a playful and colorful touch to holiday decorations and stands out as a quality piece we enjoyed using.
Pros
- Unique design with three carriages and a gingerbread man in the middle
- Bright, festive colors that catch the eye
- Handcrafted details give it a warm, homemade feel
Cons
- Slightly small for large spaces needing a bigger centerpiece
- Glitter can be a bit messy if not handled gently
- Limited availability, with only a few ratings so far
We found the train’s design creative, especially the doughnut-shaped wheels, which add a fun twist to the classic gingerbread theme. The size fits well on mantels or shelves without looking overcrowded, making it great for smaller spots.
The bright colors brought a lively vibe to our holiday setup. Because it’s handcrafted, each piece feels special, and it blended well with other Christmas items we had around the house.
One thing to watch out for is the glitter; it looks great but can shed if bumped. Overall, the SunArtHome Gingerbread Train works well for those wanting a festive accent with a nostalgic feel.
20. SunArtHome Gingerbread House
This handcrafted gingerbread house offers a charming holiday look with built-in lights that brighten up any room.
Pros
- Beautiful handmade details with classic and sparkling finishes
- Built-in light strings create a warm, festive glow
- Sturdy clay material feels durable and high quality
Cons
- Slightly heavy for a tabletop decoration
- Lights require batteries which need occasional replacing
- Not meant for outdoor use due to material sensitivity
We found the SunArtHome gingerbread house to be a lovely centerpiece for holiday decorating. Its size and the two-level design make it stand out without being overwhelming. The painted details like gingerbread men and Christmas trees add a nice storybook feel.
The battery-operated lights give it a cozy glow that works great on a mantel or dining table. It takes a few tries to get the batteries in, but the effect is worth it. The clay material feels solid but means you have to handle it carefully.
Overall, this house brings a warm, festive look to the room and lasts through the season well when kept dry. It’s a good pick for people wanting a classic style with some lighted flair.
21. Tobiwibby Gingerbread House
This gingerbread house is a cute and cozy holiday decoration that brightens up smaller spaces but has some issues with build quality.
Pros
- Bright LED lights add a warm glow
- Fits nicely on tables or shelves
- Colorful and whimsical design feels festive
Cons
- Material feels more like plastic, not clay
- Some pieces may be fragile or come loose
- Battery compartment can be tricky to access
We found the LED lights really set the mood well, providing a soft, magical glow. It’s small, so it fits well on desks or in tight spots without overwhelming your space. The colors and shape remind us of classic gingerbread houses, making it a fun festive touch.
On the downside, the material didn’t feel as sturdy as advertised. It felt more flexible and plastic-like, which made us worry about its long-term durability. A couple of minor parts were loose when we got ours, so handling it carefully is important.
Overall, it works best for those wanting a simple, bright decoration that’s easy to place anywhere. Just keep in mind it might not last as long as heavier, handmade items. For a festive glow on a budget, it’s worth considering.
22. Raz Imports Gingerbread Lighted House
This gingerbread house is a charming holiday decoration with a nice glow, but it feels a bit small for the price.
Pros
- Warm light adds cozy holiday atmosphere
- Well-made with clear details
- Durable polyester holds up well
Cons
- Smaller than expected for the cost
- Some parts feel slightly fragile
- Decoration placement isn’t perfect
We appreciated the festive glow this lighted house brings to our holiday setup. The red color and chimney detail really make it stand out on a table or shelf. Its size is good for smaller spaces but might feel too small if you want a bigger focal piece.
The craftsmanship impressed us. The design showed attention to detail, and the polyester material made the piece sturdier than many other decorations. Still, a few parts seemed delicate, so careful handling is needed.
While the house looks nice overall, the green accents on the side threw off the balance a bit. We also noticed it took some time to arrive, which could be a factor during busy seasons. Overall, this is a solid pick if you want a cozy, lighted gingerbread house without going too large.
23. Mini Elf Gingerbread House Kit by Cookies United
This kit is a good choice if you want a small, simple gingerbread house to put together with kids or friends.
Pros
- Comes with everything you need to build and decorate
- Pieces are sturdy and not easily broken
- Fun size for a quick holiday activity
Cons
- The house is smaller than expected
- Breaking apart the gingerbread can be tricky
- Some kits arrive with damaged packaging
We found the Mini Elf kit easy to use since it includes pre-baked pieces and icing ready to squeeze. The instructions for assembly were clear, making it simple to join the walls and roof with icing. The candy decorations add a nice touch, even though the assortment can vary.
The house’s small size makes it perfect for a short craft session, but it may not impress those looking for a larger display. Be careful when breaking the gingerbread apart; it doesn’t always snap cleanly along the lines. Also, some of the packaging we saw was a bit fragile, so watch out for broken pieces on arrival.
Overall, this kit offers a fun and neat gingerbread-building experience in a compact package. It worked well for us during a quick holiday project and would suit families who want a no-fuss, small gingerbread house.
Buying Guide
When choosing a gingerbread house, we focus on size first. Think about how much space you have and the number of people who will enjoy it. Small houses are great for decoration, while larger ones are better for group activities.
We look for material quality. The house should be sturdy enough to hold all decorations. Some kits have thick gingerbread walls, while others use thinner or softer materials. Stronger walls make building easier and less messy.
Ease of assembly is important. Simple designs save time and reduce frustration. If we want a quick project, we choose kits with fewer pieces and clear instructions. More complex kits allow us to be more creative but may take longer to build.
We also check what decorations come with the kit. Some include candy, icing, and other edible parts. It’s better when the decorations match the house size and design. We prefer kits that give enough items to make the house look complete.
| Feature | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Size | Fits space and number of users |
| Material Quality | Sturdy walls, firm gingerbread |
| Ease of Assembly | Clear steps, manageable pieces |
| Decorations | Includes enough candy or icing |
We pay attention to freshness too, especially if the house is edible. Some kits stay fresh longer, which helps if we want to keep it for several days. Checking packaging dates helps us pick fresher options.
