How to Make Cinnamon Pine Cones (2 Ways)

Homemade cinnamon pine cones create a beautiful and naturally scented decoration that fills your home with the smell and feel of the season.

Pine cones are essential for the life cycle of conifer trees. Most of the pine cones we find in abundance on the forrest floor actually start as female cones. Each scale of the cone is considered an ovule that is fertilized by pollen from the male cones. Those fertilized ovules then turn into seeds. After fertilization, a strong woody barrier forms around the seeds to protect them. The woody scales protect the seeds for up to a year before they eventually open up and the seeds can be dispersed, which means new trees can grow. Bet you didn’t think you’d be getting a little science lesson today, but Mother Nature is really magnificent.

For some reason, I’ve always had a fascination with pine cones. They’re like little these little pine tree gifts that are beautiful and unique. They remind me of my favorite time of year, the holiday season. At this point I’ve got a whole collection of pine cones, some that I’ve found near my home in Florida, some I even found at the beach, while I found others in the Black Hills of South Dakota. All of them are different and beautiful and unique and I love to display them during the fall and Christmastime because they really just add a special natural element, especially when they’re turned into cinnamon pine cones.

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FAQs

What kind of pine cones do I need for this project?

You can use any type of pine cone you find for this project. I look for pine cones that are fully intact and not damaged in any way. And although I LOVE the large pine cones, I prefer to turn the smaller ones into cinnamon scented pine cones. If you’re using larger pine cones, you may have to make several batches at one time, depending on how you plan to use them.

How long does the cinnamon scent last?

The cinnamon scent on these pine cones made using the bag method will last for a few weeks before declining. You can leave them as is throughout the season or refresh them with a few drops of cinnamon essential oil to the center of the pine cone. As for the pine cones made using the second method, you’ll want to add more drops of essential oil every week to keep up with the scent, depending on your preference of course.

Is cinnamon essential oil toxic for pets?

Cinnamon essential oil is not safe for cats and dogs, as it can cause respiratory and skin issues. It can also cause gastro issues if ingested in any way. As with many decor pieces and fragrances, keep them out of reach of pets and kids.

How do you store cinnamon pine cones?

When you’re not using cinnamon pine cones, you can keep them in an airtight container like a plastic bag or small tote. Just ensure they are completely dry and free of any moisture before storing. Just be aware when opening the container, the smell will be strong!

Where can I buy pine cones?

If you’re not able to forage for pine cones, you can purchase them from several places including craft stores like Michaels and Hobby Lobby, as well as online. You can get a variety pack of pine cones on Amazon or from a small seller on Etsy.

Materials

TOOLS YOU MAY NEED

Baking sheet
Aluminum foil
Gallon sealable bag

MATERIALS

5-10 pine cones
Cinnamon essential oil
Cinnamon sticks and cloves (optional)

DIRECTIONS

Method No. 1

Place pine cones on a lined baking sheet, then bake in the oven at 200°F for 45 minutes to remove any bugs.

Allow the pine cones to fully cool, then place the pine cones into a gallon sized bag, then sprinkle in about 30 drops of cinnamon essential oil.

Seal, then shake the bag to coat the pine cones in the cinnamon oil.

Allow the bag to sit sealed for 5-7 days to allow the pine cones to fully absorb the scent.

Add the cinnamon pine cones to decorative bowls or add them to potpourri.

Method No. 2

Follow the directions in method one of gathering and baking the pine cones to remove any bugs, then place the cooled pine cones in their desired location (decorative bowl, centerpiece, etc.).

Add 5 drops of cinnamon essential oil to the center of the pine cone.

Add additional drops of cinnamon oil after a few weeks to refresh the scent.

NOTES

I highly recommend going to a park or even your backyard to find pine cones, but if you live in an area where that’s not possible, you can find them online too.
You can add other essential oils to the mix like orange and clove to give the pine cones a different scent.
Leave the pine cones in the bag for 5-7 days or until you no longer see droplets of essential oil.
Do not touch your eyes or face after handling the cinnamon pine cones.

How To Use Cinnamon Pine Cones

Add them to decorative bowls to add a natural element to your seasonal decor.
Make a homemade potpourri with cinnamon pine cones, cinnamon sticks, dried flowers and more!
Give them as gifts to friends and family for the holidays.
Place them in small spaces like closets and bathrooms to give the room a festive smell.
Use them as part of a holiday tables cape by scattering them across the center of the table.

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR MORE SEASONAL PROJECTS?

Looking for more seasonal DIY projects like this dried orange garland? Check these out!

Did you enjoy making these cinnamon pine cones? If you did, tag me on Instagram (@thesimplehomeplace) to show me your own recreation!

How to Make Cinnamon Pine Cones (2 Ways)

PIN FOR LATER!

FAQs