These are NOT edible. Decorator use only!
Slice apple into rings, so that the seed-star is showing in the center. Make the slices 1/4 of an inch thick. Remove seeds if possible.
Dip apple slices in pure, concentrated lemon juice. Place the apples single layer on( not touching each other) on dehydrator tray or cookie sheet if using the oven.
Place in dehydrator at 145 degrees or place in oven at 200 degrees. Dry for about 6 hours in oven or about 8-10 hours in dehydrator.
After they have become dry; place into large plastic zip-lock bag, loosely.
Take a cotton ball and saturate it with cinnamon oil or some other spice oil. I like clove and cinnamon. ( use a fresh cotton ball for each scent) Now drop the saturated cotton ball into the bag and reseal. Shake lightly. Keep the bag sealed. Set the bag aside for a few weeks. Every couple of days shake the bag, gently distributing the scented oil.
After they have been scented the way you desire, take a needle with a big eye and string a thin ribbon or heavy thread or yarn. Push the needle through one end of apple slice and tie a loop for hanging. Place a pretty bow or trinket over the needle hole and glue it. Now you have a scented apple slice to adorn your tree.
If you want to get fancy you can put together cinnamon sticks, tiny pine sprigs, small artificial flowers, many-colored ribbon tails....be imaginative.
This technique can be used for oranges as well.
Remember these are for decorator purposes only. Do not eat!
Check for mold, then discard. They will re-absorb moisture from the air and could develop mold. Do not save from one season to the next.
If you wanted them to last for a few years, you will need to shellac the apple slice and not add any scented oil.
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