Stand Up Gingerbread Dolls

These little dolls can be used for gifts, or simply to be eaten.

Gingerbread Dough:

1/2 cup shortening
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 egg
1/2 cup molasses
1 tbsp vinegar
2 1/2 cups all purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp ginger
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp cloves
1/4 tsp salt

In a mixing bowl, cream shortening and sugar.  Blend in egg, molasses and vinegar.  Combine flour, soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves and salt; stir into molasses mixture.  Form into ball and chill for about 3 hours.

On lightly floured surface, roll out dough 1/8 inch thick.  With gingerbread boy or girl cookie cutter, cut into shapes.  cut out the same number of lower halves of doll, from waist down, to be used as back supports.  Place on greased baking sheet about 1 inch apart.  Bake in 375F oven for 5 to 6 minutes.  Let cool slightly; remove and let cool completely before decorating with Ornamental Frosting. (recipe follows) Use Frosting for eyes, nose, mouth, and to draw on clothing as you like. 

With the Melted Sugar (recipe follows) dip the top edge of the back support into Melted Sugar, then press onto back of waistline of full-sized figure at a slight angle so the doll will stand up.  Hold in place for a few seconds until set.

Ornamental Frosting:

2 egg whites
3 cups icing sugar
1/2 tsp cream of tartar
1 tsp almond extract
Food Coloring (optional)

Melted Sugar (edible glue)

In a small saucepan, melt 1/2 cup granulated sugar over medium heat until syrupy and caramel-colored.  To keep it from hardening, place in a larger pan of hot water while you are using it.  Use as "glue"

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