Easy Cinnamon Ornament Recipe: DIY Holiday Craft

Create beautiful, fragrant cinnamon ornaments using just three simple ingredients: ground cinnamon, applesauce, and glue. This easy cinnamon ornament recipe produces natural, non-toxic holiday decorations that fill your home with a warm spice scent. The mixture ratio is 2 parts ground cinnamon to 1 part applesauce, with optional white glue for durability. Form into shapes, let dry for 3-7 days, and enjoy these traditional Christmas decorations that last for years.

There's something magical about the warm, spicy aroma of cinnamon during the holiday season. Creating homemade cinnamon ornaments connects us to traditions while offering a simple, natural craft anyone can enjoy. These ornaments aren't just beautiful decorations—they're sensory experiences that engage sight, touch, and smell, making them perfect for family crafting sessions.

Why Choose Cinnamon Ornaments for Holiday Decorations

Cinnamon ornaments have gained popularity as people seek natural alternatives to mass-produced decorations. Unlike plastic ornaments that contribute to waste, these biodegradable creations offer an eco-friendly option that aligns with sustainable holiday practices. The natural cinnamon scent provides aromatherapy benefits, creating a cozy atmosphere without artificial fragrances.

For families with young children, this non-toxic cinnamon craft recipe eliminates concerns about harmful materials. The simple ingredients are kitchen-safe, making it an ideal activity for parents looking for child-friendly holiday crafts. Many educators incorporate this project into classroom activities because it develops fine motor skills while teaching about natural materials.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Cinnamon Ornaments

The beauty of this traditional craft lies in its simplicity. You'll need only three basic components, all readily available in most kitchens:

Ingredient	Amount	Purpose
Ground cinnamon	2 cups	Provides structure and signature scent
Unsweetened applesauce	1 cup	Binder that helps mixture hold shape
White school glue (optional)	2 tablespoons	Increases durability for long-lasting ornaments

For those seeking gluten-free cinnamon ornament alternatives, ensure your applesauce contains no added thickeners. Some crafters prefer using potato starch instead of applesauce for a different texture, though the traditional applesauce version produces the most consistent results for beginner cinnamon craft projects.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Creating Cinnamon Ornaments

Follow these detailed steps for perfect cinnamon ornaments every time. This easy cinnamon stick ornament recipe works for crafters of all skill levels.

Preparation Phase

1. Gather all ingredients and tools: mixing bowl, measuring cups, rolling pin, cookie cutters, straw or skewer
2. Cover your work surface with parchment paper or wax paper to prevent sticking
3. Prepare cookie cutters by lightly coating with cooking spray for easy release

Mixing the Cinnamon Dough

4. Combine 2 cups ground cinnamon and 1 cup applesauce in a bowl
5. Mix thoroughly until it forms a dough-like consistency (add more cinnamon if too wet)
6. For durable cinnamon holiday decorations, mix in 2 tablespoons white glue
7. Knead the mixture with clean hands until completely uniform

Shaping Your Ornaments

8. Roll the dough to 1/4-inch thickness using a rolling pin
9. Cut shapes using holiday-themed cookie cutters
10. Poke a small hole at the top with a straw for hanging
11. Place cutouts on parchment-lined baking sheets

Troubleshooting Common Cinnamon Ornament Issues

Even with this simple homemade cinnamon ornament recipe, crafters sometimes encounter challenges. Here's how to solve the most frequent problems:

• Cracking during drying: The mixture was too dry. Next time, add a bit more applesauce. If already cracked, smooth with damp finger.
• Sticking to surface: Your work surface needs more parchment paper or a light dusting of cinnamon.
• Mixture too wet: Add more cinnamon, 1/4 cup at a time, until proper consistency.
• Not holding shape: You may need the glue additive for better structural integrity.

Creative Variations for Personalized Holiday Decor

Elevate your natural holiday decorations with cinnamon using these creative ideas:

• Add citrus zest for complementary fragrance in your festive cinnamon craft projects
• Press whole cloves into designs for contrast and additional spice notes
• Roll edges in gold or silver edible glitter for elegant Christmas cinnamon ornaments
• Create layered ornaments by sandwiching different spice mixtures
• Use alphabet cookie cutters to spell names or holiday messages

Proper Drying and Preservation Techniques

The drying process determines your ornaments' longevity. Follow these expert tips for cinnamon ornament preservation:

• Air dry on parchment paper for 3-7 days, flipping occasionally
• For faster results, use a food dehydrator at lowest setting (95-100°F) for 12-24 hours
• Never use an oven, as high heat will burn the cinnamon
• Store finished ornaments in airtight containers with silica packets
• Refresh scent by lightly misting with cinnamon essential oil diluted in water

Properly stored, these long-lasting cinnamon holiday decorations can be enjoyed for 3-5 years before the scent diminishes significantly. Many families treasure their cinnamon ornaments as heirlooms, passing them down through generations as part of their traditional holiday craft rituals.

Displaying and Using Your Cinnamon Creations

These versatile ornaments work beautifully in multiple holiday settings:

• Hang on your Christmas tree for instant fragrance
• Create a decorative garland by stringing multiple ornaments together
• Use as natural air fresheners in closets or drawers
• Attach to gift packages as edible decoration accents
• Create a holiday wreath using a foam base and multiple ornaments

For those exploring alternative uses for cinnamon ornaments, consider making smaller versions as place card holders for holiday dinners, or creating miniature versions for ornament-themed jewelry.

How long do homemade cinnamon ornaments last?

Properly dried and stored cinnamon ornaments can last 3-5 years while maintaining their scent. Store them in airtight containers with silica packets to maximize longevity. The scent will gradually diminish over time but can be refreshed with a light misting of diluted cinnamon essential oil.

Can I make cinnamon ornaments without applesauce?

Yes, you can substitute unsweetened applesauce with potato starch paste (1 part potato starch to 2 parts water) or liquid glue mixture. However, the applesauce version produces the most consistent texture for beginners and provides natural binding properties without altering the cinnamon scent.

Why are my cinnamon ornaments cracking during drying?

Cracking typically occurs when the mixture is too dry. The ideal ratio is 2 parts cinnamon to 1 part applesauce. If cracking happens, the mixture likely needs more moisture. Next time, add applesauce gradually until it holds together when pressed. If already cracked, you can smooth minor cracks with a damp fingertip during the early drying stage.

How can I make my cinnamon ornaments more durable?

For more durable cinnamon holiday decorations, add 1-2 tablespoons of white school glue to the mixture. This creates a stronger bond between particles. You can also increase drying time by allowing ornaments to air-dry for a full week, flipping them daily. Avoid handling ornaments until completely dry, as fingerprints can create weak spots.