GINGERBREAD MEN

OLD FASHIONED GINGERBREAD MEN
1 c. butter
1 1/2 c. sugar
1 egg
4 tsp. grated orange peel
2 tbsp. dark corn syrup
3 c. flour
2 tsp. soda
2 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. ginger
1/2 tsp. cloves
1/2 tsp. salt

Cream butter and sugar. Add eggs, orange peel, and corn syrup. Add dry ingredients. Chill dough at least 1 hour. Roll dough 1/4 inch thick. Cut into gingerbread men shapes. Bake at 350 degrees for 10 minutes on ungreased baking sheet. Cool. Decorate with Royal Icing.

ROYAL ICING FOR SUGAR COOKIES

3 egg whites
1 lb. confectioners' sugar
1/2 tsp. cream of tartar
1/2 tsp. almond extract or white vanilla extract

Place all ingredients in bowl and beat on medium high for a full 10 minutes. Icing will become thick and glossy but will not increase in volume. Keep covered with damp cloth while using, removing small portions to bowl as needed. Tint if desired. To thin, add a few drops of water. Royal icing hardens with a nice sheen.