There's a particular magic that descends with the holiday season, isn't there? For me, it always starts with the senses – the twinkle of fairy lights, the warmth of a crackling fire, and most importantly, the intoxicating aroma of cinnamon. It transports me back to my grandmother's kitchen, where every December, she'd transform simple spices into beautiful, fragrant decorations. Making Homemade Cinnamon Ornaments was an annual ritual, a simple yet profound way to usher in the festive spirit. Now, as an adult, with my own little ones eager to participate, I cherish carrying on this tradition. The simplicity of this craft, combined with the incredible scent it fills your home with, makes it an absolute holiday essential. It’s a wonderful activity for all ages, creating beautiful, rustic decorations that smell amazing and last for years.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
Unforgettable Aroma: Fill your home with the warm, inviting scent of cinnamon, instantly evoking the spirit of the holidays. These fragrant decorations are natural air fresheners!
Simple & Fun for All Ages: This craft is incredibly easy, making it perfect for kids and adults alike. It’s a fantastic way to create cherished holiday memories together, from mixing the dough to cutting out shapes and decorating these delightful ornaments.
Durable & Long-Lasting: Unlike edible cookies, these creations are designed to last for many seasons, becoming treasured keepsakes you can bring out year after year. Every holiday season, your beautiful cinnamon ornaments will bring a smile to your face.
Eco-Friendly Decor: Made with natural ingredients, these Homemade Cinnamon Ornaments are a beautiful and sustainable alternative to plastic decorations.
Key Ingredient Notes
Ground Cinnamon
The star of our show! Use good quality, fresh ground cinnamon for the most potent and long-lasting scent. While any ground cinnamon will work, a finer grind will integrate more smoothly into the dough, giving you a less crumbly ornament. Remember, the scent from these decorations is their primary charm!
Applesauce (Unsweetened)
Applesauce acts as our binder, providing moisture and helping to create a pliable dough. Unsweetened applesauce is preferred as we don't need any extra sugar, and it helps ensure the ornaments dry hard and firm without getting sticky. The applesauce also contributes a subtle, pleasant undertone to the overall aroma of your cinnamon craft.
Craft Glue (Optional, but Recommended for Durability)
While some traditional recipes only use applesauce and cinnamon, adding a small amount of craft glue (like Elmer's white glue or a similar non-toxic option) significantly increases the durability and hardness of your cinnamon ornaments, preventing them from becoming brittle over time. If you're planning for these to be long-term keepsakes, a little glue goes a long way. This is particularly useful if little hands are going to be handling the finished decorations.
Step-by-Step Guide with Pro Tips
Gather Your Materials
Before you begin creating your beautiful Homemade Cinnamon Ornaments, make sure you have all your ingredients and tools ready. This will make the process much smoother and more enjoyable. You'll need ground cinnamon, unsweetened applesauce, optional craft glue, mixing bowls, a rolling pin, cookie cutters, parchment paper, a baking sheet, and a straw or skewer for making holes.
Now let's get into the festive fun of making these delightful scented ornaments!
Preparing the Dough
Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the ground cinnamon, applesauce, and craft glue (if using). Stir well with a sturdy spoon until a thick, uniform dough forms. It will be stiff, almost like clay, and wonderfully fragrant. This is the foundation for your charming cinnamon ornaments.
Step 2: If the dough is too crumbly, add a tiny bit more applesauce (half a teaspoon at a time) until it comes together. If it's too sticky, add a little more cinnamon. Knead the dough for a few minutes on a clean surface to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated and the dough is smooth. You want a consistency that's easy to roll without cracking excessively – perfect for cutting out your fragrant ornaments.
Rolling and Cutting
Step 3: Lightly dust your work surface and rolling pin with a little extra cinnamon (not flour, to maintain the scent!). Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Aim for an even thickness so your cinnamon ornaments dry uniformly.
Step 4: Use your favorite holiday cookie cutters to cut out shapes. Stars, hearts, trees, and gingerbread men are classic choices for these crafts. Carefully transfer the cut-outs to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Re-roll any scraps until all dough is used.
Step 5: Using a straw or a skewer, gently poke a hole near the top of each ornament. This hole is for threading ribbon or twine later. Make sure the hole is large enough for your chosen hanger and positioned so these homemade ornaments will hang evenly. Don't skip this step!
Drying the Ornaments
Step 6: You have two primary drying methods for your scented ornaments: air drying or baking. For air drying, simply leave the ornaments on the parchment-lined baking sheet in a dry, warm place for 2-5 days, flipping them periodically to ensure even drying. They'll harden considerably as they dry.
Step 7: For a faster drying process, you can bake them. Preheat your oven to its lowest setting (around 200°F or 95°C). Place the baking sheet with the ornaments in the oven and bake for 1-3 hours, or until they are completely hard and dry. The exact time will depend on the thickness of your Homemade Cinnamon Ornaments and your oven. Turn them occasionally to prevent curling. Keep a close eye on them to ensure they don't burn.
Decorating and Finishing
Step 8: Once your cinnamon ornaments are completely dry and hard, you can decorate them! While their rustic, natural look is charming on its own, you can add glitter glue, puff paint, or even simple acrylic paint for extra flair. Be creative and let your personality shine on each unique decoration.
Step 9: Thread a piece of festive ribbon, twine, or jute through the hole you made earlier. Tie it in a loop for hanging. Your beautiful and fragrant cinnamon ornaments are now ready to adorn your tree, wreaths, gift packages, or anywhere you want to add a touch of holiday cheer!
Variations & Serving Suggestions
These Homemade Cinnamon Ornaments are incredibly versatile! While they aren't for eating, they 'serve' a wonderful purpose in bringing festive cheer and aroma to your home.
Gift Toppers: Attach an ornament to holiday gift packages for an extra special touch. It's like two gifts in one – a beautiful present and a fragrant keepsake.
Garlands & Wreaths: String multiple cinnamon decorations together with beads or dried orange slices to create stunning garlands for your mantle or staircase. They also make lovely additions to fresh or artificial wreaths.
Diffuser Ornaments: For an even more intense scent or to refresh them over time, you can add a drop or two of cinnamon essential oil to the back of the dried ornaments (patch test first to ensure it doesn't stain or damage). This isn't strictly necessary as the crafts themselves are very fragrant, but it's an option for a scent boost.
Natural Potpourri: If you have any broken pieces or extra dough, let them dry and place them in a decorative bowl with pinecones and dried fruit for a fragrant, visual display. These broken bits of this fragrant craft still carry their wonderful scent!
Alternative Dough: If you're looking for another fun, non-edible craft, check out my recipe for The Ultimate Salt Dough Recipe for Ornaments, Handprints, and Crafting Fun!. It's another fantastic way to create lasting holiday memories, though without the strong cinnamon aroma.
Pair with a Warm Drink: While you can't eat these, their scent pairs perfectly with a cozy beverage. Imagine the aroma of your DIY cinnamon ornaments mingling with a mug of delicious The Ultimate Homemade Hot Chocolate: A Recipe for Pure Comfort. Pure holiday bliss!
Storage Tip: Unused dough can be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in an airtight container for a day or two. Dried Homemade Cinnamon Ornaments will last for years if stored properly in a cool, dry place. Consider using Basics Glass Food Storage containers for neat and safe keeping of your precious holiday creations.
Nutrition Information
Please note: These ornaments are for decorative purposes only and are not meant for consumption. The following nutrition information is based on the ingredients themselves and is presented for informational completeness, assuming negligible consumption.
| Nutrient | Amount Per Ornament (not for consumption) |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~5 kcal |
| Carbohydrate Content | ~1g |
| Cholesterol Content | 0mg |
| Fat Content | ~0g |
| Fiber Content | ~0.5g |
| Protein Content | ~0g |
| Saturated Fat Content | ~0g |
| Serving Size | 1 ornament |
| Sodium Content | ~5mg |
| Sugar Content | ~0.5g |
| Trans Fat Content | 0g |
| Unsaturated Fat Content | ~0g |
Conclusion
Crafting Homemade Cinnamon Ornaments is more than just a holiday activity; it’s an experience that fills your home with warmth, nostalgia, and a truly magical scent. It’s about slowing down, enjoying the process, and creating something beautiful with your hands and heart. Whether you make them with family, as gifts, or simply to add a touch of rustic charm to your own decorations, these fragrant little treasures are sure to become a beloved part of your holiday tradition. So gather your cinnamon and applesauce, put on some festive music, and let the wonderful aroma of your very own fragrant decorations usher in a season of joy!
FAQs
Can you eat Homemade Cinnamon Ornaments?
No, Homemade Cinnamon Ornaments are strictly for decorative purposes and are not meant for consumption. While made from natural ingredients like cinnamon and applesauce, they are often combined with craft glue for durability and dried to a hard, inedible state.
How long do Homemade Cinnamon Ornaments last?
When properly dried and stored in a cool, dry, airtight container, Homemade Cinnamon Ornaments can last for many years, often retaining their fragrant scent for several holiday seasons. Their durability is enhanced with the optional addition of craft glue.
Why are my cinnamon ornaments cracking?
Cracking can occur if the dough is too dry when rolled, if it's rolled too thin, or if the drying process is too rapid or uneven. Ensure your dough has enough moisture to be pliable, roll it to at least 1/4 inch thick, and if baking, use a low oven temperature and turn them periodically for even drying.
Can I make Homemade Cinnamon Ornaments without glue?
Yes, you can make Homemade Cinnamon Ornaments using just cinnamon and applesauce. However, adding a small amount of craft glue significantly increases their durability and prevents them from becoming brittle over time, making them more resilient for handling and storage.
Homemade Cinnamon Ornaments
Learn how to make beautiful, fragrant Homemade Cinnamon Ornaments to decorate your home for the holidays. This simple craft is perfect for all ages and fills your space with a warm, inviting aroma. Please note: these ornaments are for decorative purposes only and are not for consumption.
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 to 18 ornaments
Ingredients
1 cup ground cinnamon
3/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
2 tablespoons craft glue (optional, but recommended for durability)
Extra ground cinnamon for dusting
Ribbon or twine for hanging
Instructions
Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the ground cinnamon, applesauce, and craft glue (if using). Stir well with a sturdy spoon until a thick, uniform dough forms. It will be stiff, almost like clay, and wonderfully fragrant.
Step 2: If the dough is too crumbly, add a tiny bit more applesauce (half a teaspoon at a time) until it comes together. If it's too sticky, add a little more cinnamon. Knead the dough for a few minutes on a clean surface to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated and the dough is smooth.
Step 3: Lightly dust your work surface and rolling pin with a little extra cinnamon (not flour, to maintain the scent!). Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Aim for an even thickness so your ornaments dry uniformly.
Step 4: Use your favorite holiday cookie cutters to cut out shapes. Carefully transfer the cut-outs to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Re-roll any scraps until all dough is used.
Step 5: Using a straw or a skewer, gently poke a hole near the top of each ornament. This hole is for threading ribbon or twine later. Make sure the hole is large enough for your chosen hanger and positioned so the ornaments will hang evenly.
Step 6: For faster drying, preheat your oven to its lowest setting (around 200°F or 95°C). Place the baking sheet with the ornaments in the oven and bake for 1-3 hours, or until they are completely hard and dry. Turn them occasionally to prevent curling. Alternatively, air dry for 2-5 days in a warm, dry place, flipping periodically.
Step 7: Once your ornaments are completely dry and hard, you can decorate them! While their rustic, natural look is charming on its own, you can add glitter glue, puff paint, or even simple acrylic paint for extra flair.
Step 8: Thread a piece of festive ribbon, twine, or jute through the hole you made earlier. Tie it in a loop for hanging. Your beautiful and fragrant Homemade Cinnamon Ornaments are now ready to adorn your tree!
Notes
For best results, use fresh cinnamon for a strong, lasting scent. If air drying, ensure a low humidity environment. Store dried ornaments in an airtight container to preserve their fragrance.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Category: Holiday Crafts
- Cuisine: N/A (Craft)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ornament
- Calories: ~5 kcal
- Sugar: ~0.5g
- Sodium: ~5mg
- Fat: ~0g
- Saturated Fat: ~0g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: ~1g
- Fiber: ~0.5g
- Protein: ~0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Leave a Reply