Optional: food coloring (gel colorings offer the most vibrant hues)
Ingredients for the houses
Graham crackers (5 1/2 per house but have extra in case some are broken or break while cutting)
Sugar cones
Sturdy, plain white paper plates
Decorations: candy canes, holiday colored M&Ms, peppermints, Fruit Loops, Frosted Shredded Wheat, short pretzel rods and/or miniature pretzels, mini marshmallows, and any other items that look good to you. The bulk section--and your own pantry--is a good place to look for ideas and desired quantities.
Instructions
Add sugar, meringue powder and 5 tablespoons water to a mixing bowl.
Beat until the icing is thick and of good spreading consistency, adding a few drops more water at a time, as needed.
If you mistakenly add a bit too much water, simply add a bit more sugar and beat again.
Store in plastic zipper top bags or in covered bowls. Refrigerate until ready to use.