Instructions: Pre-heat oven t0 190c/375f/Gas 5.

1 Make the templates for the cottages from card - roof: 10cm x 8cm, side and end walls: 8cm x 6cm.

2 Line two baking trays with non-stick baking paper. In a small pan, gently melt together the butter, sugar, syrup and treacle. Sift together the flour, ginger andbicarbonate of soda in a large bowl, and gradually add the egg yolks and syrup mixture. Mix together to a soft dough and knead until smooth.

3 Divide the dough into four. Wrap three quarters in clingfilm while the remaining quarter is rolled out and shaped.

4 Roll out the gingerbread quarter to 3mm/1/8" thickness, and using templates cut out two roofs, two side walls and two end walls. Re-roll as necessary.

5 Place the shapes on a baking tray and repeat with the remaining dough.

Bake for 8-10 minutes until lightly browned and cool.

NOTES : Makes 4 houses

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