Daring Bakers: Castle von Gummi

Castle von Gummi is situated on a plateau atop a high mountain. Its walls, though roughly hewn, have never given way to enemy attack. An impregnable stronghold, it has served as a seat of power for time out of mind.

The crest of the von Gummi royal family decorates the castle walls. The current king, Friedrich von Gummi, has lately been troubled by a rebellious faction, the Trolli. Longtime separatists, they see Friedrich's reluctance for war as an opportunity for attack.

But inside, von Gummi's warriors are ready. Catapults and ammunition are ready.

Lookouts are posted in every watchtower.

Outside the protection of the castle walls, El Capitán Haribo waits for the Trolli's onslaught. Once a marauder, he threw his lot in with the von Gummi family for reasons known only to himself. His fearlessness inspires unwavering loyalty and bravery amongst the von Gummi soldiers.

The alarm is sounded! There is a rush inside the walls for final preparations.

The Trolli forces have brought a battering ram! Their hugest warriors bear it upon their shoulders, shouting, "Death to the Gummi! Death to Haribo!"

El Capitán Haribo stands his ground, unblanching.

The Gummi forces wait their Captain's signal.

Trolli troops have set their catapults.

But the Gummis strike first!

Wounded Trollis litter the field.

The battering ram warriors face this formidable sight through the portcullis.

Who will win this battle? Will Friedrich keep his crown? Will El Capitán Haribo prevail?


The December 2009 Daring Bakers’ challenge was brought to you by Anna of Very Small Anna and Y of Lemonpi. They chose to challenge Daring Bakers’ everywhere to bake and assemble a gingerbread house from scratch. They chose recipes from Good Housekeeping and from The Great Scandinavian Baking Book as the challenge recipes.

I used Y's Scandanavian recipe, with strange results... I think later there was an amendment to the recipe, using less flour. As it is, my castle walls are lighter in color than normal gingerbread and more bread-like in texture. Warping was also a problem. Ah well, I just say that bears aren't the best architects and, well, their castle IS made out of mountain stone.