Illinois Readers Take On Patch's 2021 Gingerbread House Contest

ILLINOIS — Several Illinois readers are vying for glory (and also prizes) in Patch's 2021 Gingerbread House Contest. After careful construction, meticulous gum drop installation and painstaking icing application, these mouthwatering masterpieces are ready to flex their confectionary curb appeal.

Scroll below to admire all the edible edifices, and click the link to learn more about this year's gingerbread house contest:

Camryn Smith, Elmhurst

This dulcet domicile is the brainchild of Camryn Smith of Elmhurst. Smith writes that the charming cottage, adorned with the letters "D + D" was built in honor of a pair of golden retrievers named Dolly and Duke.

Elle Smith, Elmhurst

Swedish fish help set the stage for this entry from Elle Smith of Elmhurst. Smith crafted tiny maki and oh-so-sweet plates for this creation, entitled "Santa's Sushi Shop."

Kinsley Smith, Elmhurst

Kinsley Smith, of Elmhurst, paved the way to this beachy abode with vanilla wafers and adorned the rooftop with peppermint hard candy. The bikini-clad gingerbread people are the icing on the cake for this version of "Santa's Surf Shack."

Rich Brandeis, Darien

Darien resident Rich Brandeis took this assignment very literally, forging a frame out of bread that girds a hearth of ginger. Brandeis writes that he "carefully balanced the bread." No matter what way you slice it, this entry is unique.

Stacy Palka, New Lenox

Submitted by Stacy Palka, of New Lenox, this lip-smacking lodge features intricate red gel latticework shingles, along with two sugar candy cane candies standing sentinel at the door.

Mike Palka, New Lenox

We can feel our blood sugar surging just by looking at all this candy. It appears as though someone broke into this bank and left in a haste, leaving a trail of colorful confections in their wake.

Which gingerbread house is your favorite? Let us know in the comments.