How to Make Cinnamon Dough Ornaments

A Complete Step-by-Step Guide for Beautiful, Natural Holiday Decorations

Cinnamon dough ornaments are one of those timeless crafts that never go out of style. They are warm, fragrant, rustic, and incredibly simple to make, yet the final result looks charming and thoughtful. Whether you want to decorate your Christmas tree, create handmade gifts, or enjoy a cozy DIY activity with family, cinnamon dough ornaments are a perfect choice.

Unlike edible cookies, these ornaments are designed purely for decoration. Their rich cinnamon scent can last for years, filling your home with a natural holiday aroma. Best of all, they require only a few inexpensive ingredients and minimal tools.

In this complete guide, you will learn exactly how to make cinnamon dough ornaments from scratch, how to bake and decorate them properly, how to store them so they last, and creative ways to use them throughout the holiday season.

What Are Cinnamon Dough Ornaments?

Cinnamon dough ornaments are decorative pieces made from a simple mixture of ground cinnamon, applesauce, and white glue. The dough is rolled out, cut into shapes, baked or air-dried, and then decorated or left natural.

They resemble gingerbread cookies but are not edible due to the glue. Their purpose is purely decorative, making them ideal for trees, wreaths, gift tags, and seasonal décor.

What makes them especially popular is their scent. Cinnamon is naturally aromatic, and when baked at a low temperature, it releases a warm, spicy fragrance that instantly evokes holiday memories.

Why Cinnamon Dough Ornaments Are So Popular

Cinnamon dough ornaments have remained popular for decades, and for good reason.

They are:

  • Easy to make, even for beginners
  • Affordable, using pantry ingredients
  • Kid-friendly and safe with supervision
  • Naturally scented without artificial fragrances
  • Customizable in endless shapes and designs
  • Long-lasting when stored properly
  • Eco-friendly compared to plastic decorations

They are also perfect for people who love handmade, rustic, or farmhouse-style décor.

Ingredients You Need

To make classic cinnamon dough ornaments, you only need three ingredients.

  • 1 cup ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup applesauce
  • 2 tablespoons white glue

These proportions create a dough that is firm, pliable, and easy to roll without cracking.

Why these ingredients matter:

  • Cinnamon gives structure, color, and scent
  • Applesauce adds moisture and flexibility
  • White glue binds the dough and prevents crumbling once dry

Optional additions:

  • Extra cinnamon if dough is too sticky
  • A tiny bit of water if dough feels dry
  • A drop of essential oil for extra fragrance (optional)

Tools and Supplies

You do not need any special equipment, but having these tools makes the process easier.

  • Mixing bowl
  • Spoon or spatula
  • Rolling pin
  • Parchment paper
  • Cookie cutters
  • Straw or skewer (for hanging holes)
  • Baking sheet
  • Cooling rack
  • Ribbon or twine

For decorating:

  • White puffy paint or acrylic paint
  • Fine paintbrush
  • Glitter (optional)
  • Craft sealant (optional)

Step 1: Make the Cinnamon Dough

Start by placing the ground cinnamon into a mixing bowl. Add the applesauce and white glue.

Mix slowly at first, then more firmly as the ingredients come together. The dough should resemble thick cookie dough and hold together when pressed.

If the dough is too wet:

  • Add a little more cinnamon, one tablespoon at a time

If the dough is too dry or crumbly:

  • Add a small amount of applesauce or water

Once combined, knead the dough gently with your hands until smooth. Let it rest for about 5 minutes to fully hydrate.

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough

Place the dough between two sheets of parchment paper or on a lightly cinnamon-dusted surface.

Roll it out evenly to about 1/4 inch thickness. Thinner ornaments may crack, while thicker ones take longer to dry.

Try to keep the thickness consistent so all ornaments bake evenly.

Step 3: Cut Out Shapes

Use cookie cutters to cut out your desired shapes. Popular choices include:

  • Gingerbread people
  • Stars
  • Hearts
  • Snowflakes
  • Christmas trees
  • Circles or tags

Remove excess dough and re-roll as needed.

Before moving the shapes, use a straw or skewer to create a hole near the top of each ornament. This hole is essential for hanging later.

Carefully transfer the shapes to a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake the Ornaments

Bake the ornaments at 200°F (about 95°C) for approximately 2 hours.

Low and slow is key. High heat can cause bubbling, cracking, or warping.

Halfway through baking, gently flip the ornaments to ensure even drying.

Once done, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely on a rack. They will harden further as they cool.

Alternative air-dry method:

  • Let ornaments dry at room temperature for 24 to 48 hours
  • Flip occasionally to prevent curling

Step 5: Decorate Your Ornaments

Once fully cooled, it’s time to decorate.

Simple decoration ideas:

  • White puffy paint for icing-style details
  • Acrylic paint for patterns or names
  • Minimalist designs with dots or lines
  • Natural twine bows

You can also leave them undecorated for a rustic, natural look.

If you plan to use glitter or paint heavily, consider sealing the ornaments with a clear craft sealant to protect the surface.

Step 6: Add Ribbon or Twine

Thread ribbon, twine, or string through the hole and tie securely.

Choose materials that match your décor style:

  • Jute twine for farmhouse décor
  • Red ribbon for classic Christmas
  • Neutral linen ribbon for minimalist trees

How Long Do Cinnamon Dough Ornaments Last?

When made and stored properly, cinnamon dough ornaments can last several years.

Tips for long-lasting ornaments:

  • Ensure they are fully dry before storage
  • Store in a dry, airtight container
  • Keep away from moisture and humidity
  • Avoid direct sunlight during storage

Adding a small silica packet to the storage box helps prevent moisture buildup.

Are Cinnamon Dough Ornaments Safe?

They are safe to handle and display but are not edible due to the glue. Always label them clearly if children are present.

Pets may be attracted to the cinnamon scent, so hang ornaments out of reach.

Creative Ways to Use Cinnamon Dough Ornaments

Cinnamon dough ornaments are incredibly versatile.

Ideas include:

  • Christmas tree decorations
  • Gift tags with names written on them
  • Garland strung across a mantel
  • Wreath embellishments
  • Holiday table décor
  • Stocking stuffers
  • Handmade gifts

They are also perfect for seasonal markets and craft fairs.

Making Cinnamon Dough Ornaments with Kids

This is a fantastic family activity.

Tips for working with children:

  • Pre-measure ingredients
  • Let kids roll and cut shapes
  • Supervise baking and decorating
  • Use non-toxic paints

Children love the sensory experience of the scent and texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common issues for best results.

  • Rolling dough too thin
  • Baking at high temperature
  • Skipping the hanging hole
  • Decorating before ornaments are fully cool
  • Storing while still damp

Patience is key to durable, beautiful ornaments.

Cinnamon Dough Ornament Variations

You can customize the basic recipe in many ways.

Popular variations:

  • Add cloves or nutmeg for deeper scent
  • Use shaped molds instead of cutters
  • Press lace or stamps into dough for texture
  • Personalize with names and dates

These variations make ornaments even more special.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I eat cinnamon dough ornaments?
No, they contain glue and are not safe to eat.

Why did my ornaments crack?
Cracking is usually caused by rolling too thin or baking too fast.

Can I skip the glue?
Without glue, ornaments are more fragile and may crumble over time.

How strong is the cinnamon smell?
The scent is noticeable but not overpowering and lasts for years.

Can I store them year-round?
Yes, store in a dry container away from humidity.

Why Cinnamon Dough Ornaments Are Worth Making

Cinnamon dough ornaments are more than just decorations. They are keepsakes, memories, and traditions rolled into one simple craft.

They bring warmth, creativity, and a handmade touch to the holidays. Whether you make them once or every year, they have a way of becoming part of your seasonal rituals.

With minimal cost and maximum charm, cinnamon dough ornaments are one of the most rewarding DIY holiday projects you can try.