NYSCI Exhibit Shows The Functionality Of Homemade Gingerbread Houses
You've probably never seen so many homemade gingerbread houses, until you make it out to Gingerbread Lane at the New York Hall of Science (NYSCI) in Queens, NY. Chef and creator of the event, Jon Lovitch, has helped make thousands of these cookie homes come to life over the years.
The original event has been going on for the past five consecutive holiday seasons at Robinson Mall in Pittsburgh.
"This is our first year with him," said Director of Public Programs at the science organization, Liz Slagus. "Jon has been making gingerbread for over 20 years."
Slagus went on to explain that all the ingredients for the gingerbread houses are completely handmade and edible, unlike some store-bought kinds.
Lovitch, who's a native of Kansas City, Mo., was originally inspired by a local pastry chef named Chuck Conroy and a mutual chef friend named Joe Evano to elaborate on this Christmas tradition. Lovitch's Gingerbread Lane has even received the title of the largest gingerbread village in the world by the 2014 Guinness World Records.
The history of gingerbread can be traced back to 11th Century Europe, when returning crusaders brought back the spicy treat from the Middle East. Yet gingerbread as we know it today--the essential Christmas cookie--can be traced back to Medieval European culinary traditions that were shaped by Franconia monks in the 13th century. The first documented instances of these cookie figures can even be seen through Elizabeth I of England, who had them decorated in the likeness of guests.
You might wonder just how these little houses can stand by themselves. After all, no nails or glue are involved in this decorating.
According to Slagus, the houses' functionality is greatly dependent on the strength of the Royal Icing that "glues" the cookie walls and roofs together. Added candy decorations also help to cement the look and design of the overall creation.
Though the holidays are coming to a close, don't despair. There's still time to check out these wonderful creations at NYSCI.
On January 11th, the science organization is actually giving away pieces of Gingerbread Lane on a first-come, first-served basis until every piece of gingerbread is on its way home. While there is a limit of one house per person, the lineup starts at noon and the giveaway starts promptly at 1 p.m.--all free with NYSCI admission.
For more information about Gingerbread Lane at NYSCI, click here.
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