How to Store Gingerbread Men (and Houses) so They Stay Fresh During the Holidays

Although Christmas is a little less than two months away—anyone else already blasting Mariah Carey?—gingerbread baking has begun in full force. These cookies aren’t just tasty any time of year; they’re also delightful decorations to bring festive cheer to your home. Making large batches is standard practice, but keeping them fresh is key. So, how do you store your gingerbread men and houses to either display them beautifully or serve them as treats for your guests, kids, friends, and, of course, yourself?

Gingerbread Men in the Fridge? 

Ah, the fridge—the hero of leftovers and the villain of baked goods. Storing gingerbread men in the fridge might seem like a good idea, but it’s more likely to rob them of their signature texture. Cold air dries out gingerbread, leaving it brittle instead of chewy and flavorful. The only time refrigeration makes sense is for cookies decorated with perishable icing, such as cream cheese frosting. Even then, use an airtight container to protect them from moisture and fridge odors, which could turn your gingerbread dreams into a soggy nightmare.

How to Best Store Gingerbread Men 

Decorated cookies are little works of art, but storing them requires care. Let the icing set completely before stacking—smudges and sticky messes are not the holiday vibe we’re going for. Store them in a single layer in an airtight container, or separate layers with wax paper. Kept at room temperature in a cool, dry spot, they’ll stay delicious and intact for up to two weeks.

Undecorated cookies are easier to manage but still deserve a little TLC. Pop them into an airtight container or zip-top bag, ensuring as much air is removed as possible. Stored at room temperature, they’ll last up to three weeks, retaining their signature spiced aroma. To prevent them from drying out, toss a slice of bread or a piece of apple into the container—a baker’s secret weapon against staleness.

How to Best Store Gingerbread Houses

If your gingerbread house is destined for snacking, treat it like a decorated cookie. Cover it loosely with plastic wrap or place it in a large airtight container to keep it fresh for up to two weeks. Planning to use it solely as a festive centerpiece? Display it in a dry, cool area away from sunlight to maintain its structure. While decorative gingerbread houses can last weeks—or even months—the longer they sit, the harder they’ll get. By January, they’re likely better for admiration than for eating.

Can Gingerbread Men and Houses Be Frozen?

Yes! Gingerbread cookies and houses freeze beautifully, making them a great candidate for early holiday prep. Freeze undecorated cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep for up to three months. Decorated cookies can also be frozen, though frosting colors may fade slightly over time. Gingerbread houses are best frozen in pieces before assembly to avoid damage; freezing a fully constructed house can leave you with a crumbled mess instead of a Christmas masterpiece.