Mix dry ingredients

Beat shortening, sugar, eggs and molasses until well combined then beat in dry ingredients

Knead dough on working board then divide into two portions

Flatten each portion into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for at least 2 h

Mix marshmallow with water, melt in microwave in 30 seconds interval until totally melted

Add in icing sugar, stir

Dump on greased working board and knead until elastic and smooth, wrap with plastic cling and let rest overnight at room temperature before using

Cinnamon, ginger, and clove spices to color and scent (use more cinnamon than the other spices), 2 tsp each at least

Mix all ingredients in a pot and stir over medium heat continuously until clay like consistency (like mashed potatoes). Take off from heat and cover with damp towel until cool enough to knead.

Knead and mold/cut as you pleased

Beat egg whites and extract until frothy then beat in icing sugar gradually until well combined and shiny, on low speed

Turn up speed to high and beat until firm peaks

Store in rubbermaid or similar container, do not expose to air or it will be dry

Prepare a design, trace/draw on hard paper, cut. This will be your template.

Take out a dough from fridge and roll flat between two parchment paper.

Place your template on dough, cut and place dough on baking sheet that is lined with parchment paper

Bake on 325 F for 12-15 mins until golden and firm to the touch

Transfer to rack and let cool completely

Repeat step for the other disk, for other pieces needed

Start decorating!