Applesauce Cinnamon Ornaments: Natural Craft Guide

Applesauce cinnamon ornaments are natural, non-toxic decorative items made from a simple mixture of applesauce and ground cinnamon that can be shaped into various forms, dried, and used as seasonal decorations, particularly popular for fall and holiday crafting with children. This easy DIY project requires only two main ingredients and provides a wonderful sensory activity for families.

Creating homemade ornaments doesn't get much simpler or more aromatic than applesauce cinnamon ornaments. These natural decorations have been a beloved craft tradition for generations, offering a chemical-free alternative to store-bought decorations while filling your home with that signature warm, spicy scent.

The Science Behind This Simple Craft

What makes this two-ingredient craft work so well? The magic happens through dehydration. Applesauce contains pectin and natural sugars that, when combined with cinnamon's absorbent properties, create a pliable dough that hardens as it dries. As moisture evaporates over several days, the mixture transforms from a soft paste to a firm, lightweight ornament that retains its shape and fragrance for months.

Essential Materials for Perfect Cinnamon Applesauce Ornaments

While the basic recipe requires only applesauce and cinnamon, having the right tools ensures better results:

Item	Purpose	Recommended Quantity
Unsweetened applesauce	Base ingredient providing moisture and binding	1 cup
Ground cinnamon	Absorbs moisture and provides fragrance	2-3 cups
Cookie cutters	Shapes ornaments consistently	Assorted sizes
Toothpicks or skewers	Makes hanging holes before drying	Several
Parchment paper	Prevents sticking during drying	As needed

Step-by-Step Instructions for Homemade Cinnamon Ornaments

Mixing the Perfect Dough Consistency

Combine one cup of unsweetened applesauce with approximately two cups of ground cinnamon in a mixing bowl. Stir thoroughly until the mixture begins to pull away from the sides of the bowl. Add additional cinnamon (up to one more cup) until you achieve a play-dough like consistency that holds together when pressed but doesn't stick to your fingers. This homemade cinnamon applesauce ornament recipe requires proper texture for successful shaping.

Shaping Your Natural Decorations

Roll the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness on a surface lightly dusted with cinnamon. Use cookie cutters to create shapes, then carefully transfer to parchment-lined baking sheets. Before the ornaments begin drying, use a toothpick to create hanging holes. For easy applesauce cinnamon ornaments for kids, consider letting children press dried cloves or small seeds into the surface for added texture.

Drying Process and Timeline

Allow ornaments to air dry for 3-7 days, flipping them halfway through the drying process. The exact time depends on humidity levels and ornament thickness. They're ready when completely hard and no longer cool to the touch. For natural holiday decorations with applesauce and cinnamon, patience is key—rushing the drying process can cause cracking.

Expert Tips for Long-Lasting Cinnamon Ornaments

Many crafters wonder how to make their homemade cinnamon spice ornaments last longer. The secret lies in the drying environment. Place ornaments in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. For added durability, some crafters lightly spray finished ornaments with a clear acrylic sealer, though this isn't necessary for the ornaments to maintain their shape.

To enhance the fragrance, consider adding a few drops of cinnamon essential oil to the mixture. For non-toxic children's craft ornaments, stick with the basic recipe as essential oils may cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.

Creative Variations to Try

While traditional round or leaf-shaped ornaments work beautifully, don't limit your creativity. Try these variations:

• Personalized name ornaments using letter cookie cutters
• Layered ornaments with different spice colors (add nutmeg or ginger for variation)
• Imprinted designs using textured fabrics or lace pressed into the dough
• Miniature ornaments perfect for gift toppers or tree accents

Preserving and Displaying Your Creations

Once completely dry, store ornaments in an airtight container with parchment between layers. When ready to display, thread ribbon or twine through the hanging holes. These natural fall decorations with cinnamon and applesauce work beautifully on Christmas trees, as gift toppers, or strung together as garlands. The scent will gradually fade over months but can be refreshed by lightly misting with water.

For those creating applesauce cinnamon ornaments for holiday gifts, consider packaging them in small gift boxes with handwritten recipe cards—this transforms your craft into a thoughtful, handmade present.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Problem: Ornaments cracking during drying
Solution: The dough was likely too dry. Next time, use slightly more applesauce or cover ornaments with a light cloth during the first 24 hours to slow the drying process.

Problem: Ornaments remaining soft after a week
Solution: Increase cinnamon ratio in your next batch or place in a low-temperature oven (170°F) for 2-3 hours to accelerate drying.

Problem: Faded scent over time
Solution: Lightly mist with water to reactivate the cinnamon aroma, or store with a few whole cloves in the container.

Why This Craft Endures Through Generations

Unlike many trendy crafts, applesauce cinnamon ornaments have maintained popularity because they address multiple needs: they're budget-friendly, use pantry staples, provide sensory engagement, create lasting memories, and produce decorations with genuine sentimental value. The process of making simple cinnamon spice ornaments for kids engages multiple senses—sight, touch, and smell—creating a richer experience than many modern crafts.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do applesauce cinnamon ornaments last?

Properly dried applesauce cinnamon ornaments can last for several years when stored in a cool, dry place. The fragrance typically remains strong for 6-12 months before gradually fading, though the ornaments themselves maintain their shape indefinitely if not exposed to moisture.

Can I use unsweetened applesauce for cinnamon ornaments?

Yes, unsweetened applesauce works best for cinnamon ornaments as added sugars can cause the mixture to become too sticky and may attract insects. The natural sweetness of applesauce is sufficient for this craft without requiring additional sweeteners.

Why are my cinnamon applesauce ornaments molding?

Molding occurs when insufficient cinnamon is used or when drying time is inadequate. Cinnamon acts as a natural preservative, so maintaining the proper 2:1 or 3:1 cinnamon-to-applesauce ratio is crucial. Ensure complete drying (typically 5-7 days) in a well-ventilated area before storage.

Can I paint applesauce cinnamon ornaments?

Yes, you can paint dried cinnamon ornaments using watercolors or acrylic paints. Apply paint lightly to avoid adding too much moisture. For best results, wait until ornaments are completely dry (at least 7 days), then use a small brush for detailed work. Seal with a clear matte spray if desired.

Are applesauce cinnamon ornaments safe for young children?

Yes, these ornaments are generally safe for children to handle as they contain only food-grade ingredients. However, supervise young children during creation as small pieces could pose choking hazards. The ornaments themselves are not edible despite their ingredients, so teach children they are for decoration only.