Spicey Ornaments
Festive cinnamon-scented ornaments perfect for holiday decorating, these non-edible crafts combine warm spices and creative shapes, making fun activities for families and friends during the season.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together applesauce, cinnamon, all spice, ground cloves, and nutmeg.
- Pat out the mixture on a floured surface or work area, using a rolling pin if desired.
- Sprinkle a little cinnamon on the work surface to make rolling easier.
- Cut out shapes with cookie cutters of your choice.
- Make a small hole on top of each ornament, large enough to thread a ribbon through.
- Allow the ornaments to dry on wax paper for a couple of days, turning occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more vibrant scent, consider adding a few drops of essential oils like cinnamon or clove to the mixture. If you don't have all spice, you can substitute it with equal parts of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. To make the rolling process even easier, chill the mixture for a short time before rolling it out. This recipe is reminiscent of Bread-Dough Ornaments, which can also be used for holiday decorations.
Serving Suggestions
These spicy ornaments make wonderful holiday decorations and can be hung on trees, doorways, or used as gift tags. For a creative touch, pair them with the sweet aroma of Mammy'S Fruitcake or use them as part of a homemade gift basket filled with seasonal treats. They also look charming when strung together as a garland.
Storage & Reheating
Once dried, store the ornaments in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to preserve their scent and shape. Avoid storing them in humid areas as moisture can cause them to become soft. These ornaments are not edible, so there’s no need to reheat them. Instead, display them as festive decorations.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spicey Ornaments contains roughly 527 calories, with 6g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. It also contributes 14g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other spices in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different spices such as cardamom, ginger, or even a hint of vanilla for a unique twist. Just keep in mind that the balance of spices is key to achieving that classic holiday scent.
How long do these ornaments last?
When properly dried and stored, these ornaments can last for years, retaining their scent and shape. However, it's best to check them periodically for any signs of moisture or mold, especially if they've been stored for a long time.
Can I paint or decorate these ornaments?
Yes! Once the ornaments are dry, you can paint them with non-toxic paints or decorate them with ribbons and glitter for an added festive flair. Just ensure any decorations used are also safe for display.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).