There is a never-ending need for fun recipes in our daily activities at Smith Mountain Lake. This month’s offerings are not just about food recipes, however. How would you like a recipe for making clay Christmas tree ornaments? Or better yet, some edible Christmas tree ornaments?
Scented Christmas Ornaments
4 oz. can (about 1 c.) of cinnamon
1 tbsp. cloves
1 tbsp. nutmeg
3/4 c. applesauce
2 tbsp. white glue
In a medium bowl, combine cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Add applesauce and glue; stir to combine. Work mixture with hands for 2 to 3 minutes or until dough is smooth and ingredients are thoroughly mixed. Divide into 4 portions. Roll out each dough portion to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut dough with cookie cutters. Using a straw or toothpick, make a small hole in the top of the ornament. Place cut-out ornaments on a wire rack to dry. Allow several days to dry, turning ornaments over once each day. Use these ornaments to decorate gifts, hang them on the tree, etc.
Clay Ornaments Recipe
2 c. baking soda
1 c. cornstarch
1 1/4 c. cold water
Mix soda and cornstarch, blending well. Add the cold water and mix well until the mixture is smooth. Boil for one minute until it has the consistency of mashed potatoes. Stir constantly. Spoon out on a plate. Cover with a damp cloth and allow to cool. Knead dough and roll it out on waxed paper. Cut out designs with a cookie cutter or shape by hand. Let dry until hardened, about 1 to 2 days. Paint ornaments with tempera or watercolors. Dry well and coat with shellac or clear nail polish. Hangers may be mounted on the back with glue, or pressed into the dough before it dries.
Edible Ornaments
Use a basic sugar cookie recipe, after rolling it out, use glass or a can to cut large circles. Use a wide straw to cut a hole near the top. After baking the cookies, paint family names on each one. You can also give them to teachers, friends, and family as gifts. On Christmas Day everyone gets to eat the cookie with their name on it.