Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed birdseed, suitable for common backyard birds
- 2 packets unflavored gelatin, about 1/2 ounce total
- 2/3 cup water
- 2 tablespoons corn syrup
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 6 pieces cotton twine, each 10 inches long
- 1 sheet parchment paper, about 12 by 16 inches
- 1 baking sheet, about 12 by 16 inches
- 1 small saucepan, 1 quart size
- 1 medium mixing bowl, 2 quart size
- 1 wooden spoon or silicone spatula, 10 to 12 inches long
- 1 set measuring cups and spoons
- 1 round cookie cutter, about 3 inches across
- 1 drinking straw or chopstick, for making hanging holes
- 1 pair disposable gloves, optional and substitute friendly
- 1 clean kitchen towel, for wiping sticky fingers
- 1 table covering, such as a reusable silicone mat or old sheet
Instructions
- Cover your table before you measure anything.
- Place the parchment on the baking sheet and set the cookie cutter, twine, straw, bowl, and spoon within reach.
- Pour 2/3 cup water into the saucepan and sprinkle in 2 packets of unflavored gelatin. Let it sit for 2 minutes.
- Warm the saucepan over low heat, stirring slowly until the gelatin dissolves. Add 2 tablespoons corn syrup and stir until smooth, then remove from heat.
- Put 4 cups birdseed and 1/4 cup flour into the mixing bowl. Stir the dry ingredients together.
- Pour the warm gelatin mixture over the seeds. Stir until the mixture looks evenly damp and holds together.
- Set the cookie cutter on the parchment and spoon in enough mixture to fill it to about 1/2 inch thick. Press firmly with the back of the spoon.
- Use the straw or chopstick to make one hole near the top of the ornament.
- Lift the cutter straight up. If the sides slump, push the mixture back into the cutter and press again.
- Repeat the same pattern for five more ornaments.
- Leave the ornaments on the parchment at room temperature for 8 to 12 hours until they feel firm.
- Thread one 10-inch piece of cotton twine through each hole and tie a double knot.
- Brush loose seeds from the baking sheet and wipe the spoon and bowl with a damp towel.
Notes
Keep the saucepan on low heat and use adult supervision. Children can help with measuring and mixing but should be supervised closely.
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
