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Somehow, gingerbread biscuits cut into various shapes have become traditional at Christmas time. They're very easy to make, although the decoration might be a bit of a challenge.
Make the Dough
Add the butter, sugar and golden syrup to a small pan. Slowly heat it until the butter has melted and the sugar dissolved. Take it off the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Mix the ginger, flour and bicarb together in a bowl, then stir in the butter mixture. Wrap the dough in plastic film and let it rest in the fridge for about 15 minutes.
Make and Bake the Biscuits
Sprinkle flour on your worktop. Take a handful of dough and roll it out to about 4-5mm (quarter of an inch) thickness. If you find the dough is dry and cracking, work in a few drops of water. You could cut the biscuits into rounds or squares but if you have any festive cookie cutters - men, women, Christmas tree, cand cane etc - use those. Line two baking sheets with greaseproof paper and arrange the biscuits on these, leaving a bit of space between them because they will expand. Heat your oven to 170°C (3338°F) for a fan/convection oven or air fryer oven, 190°C (374°F) conventional, gas 5. Bake the biscuits on the middle shelf for 10 minutes. Place on a wire rack to cool completely.
Decorate the Biscuits
Make royal icing by whisking the egg whites with the cream of tartar until they are foamy, and then gradually stir in the sugar. You want to end up with a smooth and glossy paste and for piping it should not dribble off a spoon. If it is too runny you may need to mix in extra sugar. Put some icing into a piping bag and decorate the cookies any way you want.
About Raw Eggs
In some countries it is not safe to consume raw egg whites. If your eggs have salmonella, consider using meringue powder instead.