Preparation: 30 minutes
Resting time: 1 hour
Baking: 8-10 minutes

Making crunchy gingerbread is a very ancient tradition handed down from one generation to the next, and which continues to this day. 

 Step 1

1. In a bowl, combine all the ingredients for the dough except the flour using a wooden spoon.
2. Gradually blend in the flour, stirring constantly.

Step 2

1. Cover and let rest for 1 hour in a cool place.

Step 3

1. Roll the dough out to a 4-5 mm thickness.
2. Using cookie cutters, cut out shapes such as Christmas trees, angels or stars.

Step 4

1. Place the cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
2. Bake in a 210° C/425° F oven for 8-10 minutes until golden brown. Let cool.

Step 5 - Decorating

1. In a bowl, whip the egg white until it forms peaks.
2. Gradually beat in the icing sugar to form a thick, but still slightly runny, mixture.
3. Transfer the icing to a piping bag fitted with a very small tip.
4. Use your imagination to decorate the cookies with lines, circles or curlicues, depending on the shape.