The Best Cinnamon Ornament Recipe

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There are certain scents that feel stitched into winter—evergreen, something vaguely sugary, and of course, that unmistakable cinnamon warmth that seems to wrap around your shoulders like a soft scarf. Every year when the weather shifts and the days tilt toward early evenings, I find myself craving little rituals that anchor the season: playlists that sound like twinkle lights, mugs that never stay empty for long, and homemade decorations that make a space feel personal rather than Pinterest-polished.

Cinnamon ornaments are one of those deceptively simple traditions. They’re nostalgic, yes, but also beautifully low-lift, wildly budget friendly, and—maybe best of all—just feel good to make. The scent alone turns an afternoon into a memory.

If you’ve never made them before, or if your last attempt produced something that looked more like a cracked cookie than a keepsake, this recipe changes everything. It’s the one I return to year after year because it’s reliable, kid-friendly, and leaves your home smelling like you live inside a gingerbread novel.

Let’s gather everything and settle in.

Why Cinnamon Ornaments?

There’s something restorative about making something with your hands—especially something that doesn’t require perfection. These ornaments are part craft, part aromatherapy: a gentle counterbalance to the year’s inevitable rush.

They’re also sustainable in the way that matters most: you’re using pantry staples, no plastic in sight, and the ornaments last for ages if you store them well. Think: a holiday tradition you bring out year after year, soft around the edges like a sweater that’s been loved in all the right ways.

What You’ll Need

Nothing fussy, nothing expensive—just a tiny constellation of ingredients you probably already have.

• 1 cup ground cinnamon
• 1 cup applesauce
• 1–2 tablespoons white school glue (optional, but strengthens the dough)
• Additional cinnamon for dusting
• Rolling pin
• Cookie cutters (stars, snowflakes, little woodland creatures—your call)
• Straw or skewer for making hanging holes
• Parchment paper
• Ribbon or twine

A note: if you want this to be fully natural, skip the glue. Your ornaments will still hold up beautifully; they might just be a little more delicate, which—to be completely honest—adds to their charm.

The Recipe

1. Combine the dry ingredients

In a medium bowl, stir together your cinnamon. The scent should already be drifting upward like a quiet invitation.

2. Add the applesauce

Scoop it in, stirring until the mixture begins to come together. It should resemble a soft dough—think cookie dough before it chills.

3. Add glue (optional)

If you’re making these with little ones or want heirloom-status durability, add a tablespoon or two of white school glue. It helps bind the dough without affecting the scent.

4. Knead until smooth

Turn the dough onto a cinnamon-dusted surface and knead gently. If it’s too sticky, dust with more cinnamon. If it’s too crumbly, add a teaspoon of applesauce at a time. This step always feels grounding—your hands doing the kind of quiet work that winter afternoons were made for.

5. Roll out the dough

Roll to about 1/4 inch thick. Thinner pieces dry faster, but thicker ones feel beautifully substantial on a tree or tied to a gift.

6. Cut your shapes

This is where the magic happens. Press your cutters in firmly and lift each ornament with a small spatula or your fingers.

7. Make holes & dry

Use a straw to punch a neat hole near the top. Transfer everything to a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Now choose your drying adventure:

• Low-oven method: Bake at 200°F (93°C) for 2–3 hours, flipping halfway.
• Air-dry method: Leave them out on a rack for 48–72 hours, turning occasionally. This method is beautifully low-energy and the scent lingers longer.

8. Cool & decorate (or don’t!)

Once dry, you can leave them understated and natural or add a dusting of mica-free glitter, a little paint, or a simple date written on the back. Thread ribbon through the holes and they’re ready to hang.

Tips for Ornaments That Last (And Last)

Because nothing is more heartbreaking than a cracked star…

• Make sure the dough isn’t over-wet. Sticky dough = fragile ornaments.
• Flip ornaments halfway through drying for even texture.
• Store in a tin or cloth bag, not plastic. Plastic traps moisture.
• If an edge cracks while still damp, smooth it with a pinch of wet cinnamon.

Decoration Ideas

• Add white acrylic paint to the edges for a frosted-forest effect.
• Use a gold gel pen to write names—instant gift tags.
• Tie two together with greenery for elevated present toppers.
• Mix in a dash of nutmeg for deeper color and warm scent.

The goal isn’t to create something showroom ready. It’s to create something uniquely yours.

FAQs About The Best Cinnamon Ornament Recipe

How do you make cinnamon ornaments smell stronger?

To boost the scent, add a teaspoon of cinnamon essential oil or a little extra ground cinnamon to the dough. Once the ornaments are fully dry, you can refresh them each year with a tiny dab of oil applied to the back—just enough to revive the aroma without staining.

Why are my cinnamon ornaments cracking?

Cracks usually happen when the dough is too dry or rolled too thin. If the dough crumbles while kneading, add a teaspoon of applesauce at a time until it softens. When rolling, aim for about ¼-inch thickness and let ornaments dry slowly and evenly, flipping them halfway through.

Can I make cinnamon ornaments without glue?

Yes—glue is optional. Without it, the ornaments are fully natural and still hold up well, though they may be slightly more delicate. If going glue-free, take care when rolling and lifting shapes, and choose the air-dry method to reduce brittleness.

How long do cinnamon ornaments last?

With proper drying and storage, cinnamon ornaments can last for years. Keep them in a breathable container like a tin or cloth bag and store them somewhere cool and dry. Many people reuse the same set season after season with just a yearly scent refresh.

Are cinnamon ornaments safe for pets and kids?

They’re non-toxic, but they’re definitely not edible—think spicy clay, not cookies. Kids can help make them as long as they understand they’re for decorating, and pets should be kept from chewing on them since the cinnamon can be irritating in large amounts.

Can you paint or decorate cinnamon ornaments?

Absolutely. Once dry, cinnamon ornaments take well to acrylic paint, gel pens, mica-free glitter, or a simple white edge for a frosted look. Just avoid heavy, wet paint layers, which can cause softening; thin coats keep everything crisp.

Do cinnamon ornaments mold?

They rarely mold when dried thoroughly. Make sure they’re completely hardened before storing—flexible or cool centers mean they need more time. If stored in a breathable container instead of plastic, they stay dry and safe year after year.

Can I air-dry cinnamon ornaments instead of baking?

Yes, and it’s gentler on the dough. Air-drying takes 48–72 hours and helps preserve the strong cinnamon scent. Flip the ornaments once or twice a day for even drying, and keep them on a rack to allow airflow on all sides.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Lisa, Slow Living Enthusiast

Hi, I’m Lisa. I write about slow living, nervous system care, and creating calm, intentional routines for everyday life. After spending 10 years living in Europe, I learned firsthand the art of savoring moments, embracing simplicity, and letting life unfold at a more human pace. My mission is to help you soften the edges of modern life and create space for a more intentional way of living.