Scented Cinnamon Ornaments for the Holidays!
Calling all crafty elves and little helpers! It's that time of year again - time to whip up some festive cheer and fill your home with the warm, inviting scents of the season. Today, we're ditching the glitter and diving into a super fun, super easy recipe for scented cinnamon ornaments that not only look adorable but smell incredible!
Ready to transform your kitchen into a winter wonderland (minus the snow)? Let's get crafting!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 ½ cups ground cinnamon (look for the budget-friendly kind, you won't be eating it!)
- 2 tablespoons white craft glue (optional, for added sturdiness)
Tools:
- Cookie cutters (Christmas shapes or anything festive!)
- Straw (for poking holes)
- Ribbon or twine for hanging
- Rolling pin (optional, but helpful for flattening the dough)
Safety Note: While the cinnamon scent is delightful, remember this dough isn't meant for eating. Adult supervision is recommended, especially with younger children.
Step 1: Make the Dough
In a large bowl, combine applesauce and cinnamon. Mix well until a thick dough forms. Please be careful when stirring the cinnamon to not breathe in any of the particles. If the mixture feels too sticky, you can add a tablespoon or two of craft glue for extra hold.
Step 2: Roll and Cut
There are two ways to tackle this step. If you have a rolling pin, lightly flour a surface and roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thickness. This will make it easier to use cookie cutters. Alternatively, you can freehand shapes directly from the dough ball, perfect for a more rustic look.
Use a straw to poke a small hole at the top of each ornament before baking. This is where your ribbon or twine will go to hang them on the tree.
Step 4: Bake
Preheat your oven to the lowest setting (around 200°F or 90°C). Place your ornaments on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 2-3 hours, or until completely dry and hardened. Flip the ornaments halfway through baking for even drying.
Step 5: Decorate and Hang
Once your ornaments are cool and completely dry, it's decorating time! Here are some ideas to add a festive touch:
- Paint them with acrylic paints (be sure to use paints suitable for non-edible crafts).
- Add glitter or sequins for some sparkle.
- Decorate with small buttons, beads, or dried cranberries.
Thread your ribbon or twine through the pre-made holes and hang your beautiful, fragrant ornaments on your Christmas tree.
Tips for Success:
- For a stronger cinnamon scent, use fresh ground cinnamon instead of pre-ground.
- If the dough cracks while drying, simply smooth it out with your fingers.
- Get creative with cookie-cutter shapes! Snowflakes, stars, gingerbread men, reindeer - the possibilities are endless.
- This recipe is perfect for creating personalized ornaments. Write your child's name or the year on the ornament before baking.
These cinnamon-scented ornaments aren't just festive—they’re a cozy holiday tradition in the making. So gather the kids, turn up the holiday tunes, and make some sweet-smelling memories that will fill your home with warmth, joy, and the comforting scent of the season.