Making the World Cuter with And Baby Makes Five

I am on Maternity Leave from September 4th-October 12th: This post was contributed by

Colleen at And Baby Makes Five

If you're beginning to think ahead to Christmas crafts, sweet seasonal handmades, and inexpensive Yuletide fun ... this is your lucky day!

I have long enjoyed this lovely little recipe, especially at Christmastime. It's simple, versatile, and both kid and budget-friendly. From ornaments to bowl fillers, hostess gifts to kid-friendly snow day fun, you just can't go wrong with ornamental gingerbread. With a few basic supplies, a measure of creativity, and a little bit of patience, you too can create a wealth of ornamental goodness for pennies ... just in time for Christmas.

Ornamental Gingerbread Recipe

3 T shortening
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup molasses
1 tsp. baking soda
3/4 cup water
3 1/2 cups flour
1 tsp. each: ground cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg

Beat shortening and sugar together until light and fluffy. Stir in molasses. Mix dry ingredients together. Stir them into sugar mixture and gradually add water. Dough will be very stiff. Refrigerate overnight.

Heat oven to 350º. Cut dough into three pieces. Roll one piece at a time (between two pieces of waxed paper) to a thickness of about 1/4 ". Cut out desired shapes and patterns. {*** If you are planning to hang these ornaments, poke holes in the shapes now with a straw or toothpick.***} Bake for about 20 minutes. Allow to cool and harden for several hours or overnight.

Finished ornaments can be painted, sealed, or dipped in melted wax. The possibilities are endless.

If you're looking for more inexpensive and inspirational Christmastime crafty fun, please stop by And Baby Makes Five and make yourself at home. Any time.