5-Ingredient Gingerbread Dough Ornaments That Last

Crafting your own homemade Christmas ornaments is an easy and fun way to give your tree a personal touch while making memories with your loved ones. However, traditional gingerbread ornaments tend to only last one season, and salt-dough alternatives, while strong and sturdy, lack that signature gingerbread look and smell. Though it won't make for a tasty treat, this five-ingredient gingerbread-style dough will last for years to come, along with the memories you make while crafting it.

1. Combine the Ingredients

Grab a mixing bowl and add 1/2 cup apple sauce, 4 tablespoons white glue, 2 tablespoons allspice, 2/3 cup cinnamon and 1/4 cup nutmeg.

2. Mix the Ingredients

Using a spoon, mix the ingredients together. Once the mixture begins to tighten, begin mixing with your hands, squeezing the mixture together as you go. Once it holds together, roll it into a tight ball.

3. Roll Out the Dough

Place the ball onto a piece of parchment and slightly flatten it using your hands. Use a rolling pin to roll the dough out into a 1/4-inch-thick sheet.

Pro Tip: If the dough sticks to the rolling pin, place a second piece of parchment over top of the dough to aid in rolling it out.

4. Cut the Ornament Shapes

Use assorted Christmas cookie cutters to cut ornaments out of the dough. Once you run out of space, repeat the balling and rolling process to cut out more ornaments. Use a straw to cut a perfect hole for hanging the ornaments, being careful not to get too close to the edge, as this will compromise the strength of the dough.

5. Bake the Ornaments

Bake the ornaments at 200 degrees F for 45 minutes, then let cool.

6. Decorate the Ornaments

To “ice” your ornaments, add festive swirls with 3D fabric paint and let dry.

7. Deck Your Halls

Finish each ornament off with a circle of twine or string to adorn your Christmas tree.