A series of hydrotalcite-like compounds was synthesized by varying Mg/Al molar ratio with values of 2, 3, and 4. After thermal treatment at 823K, the corresponding mixed oxides were obtained and used as catalytic supports. The incorporation of a Pd metallic phase (0.5g/g loading), was carried out by two methods: 1) in situ vapour phase thermal decomposition, and 2) impregnation by organic method. Fresh and calcined samples were characterized by XRD and N-2 sorption experiments. The basic and metal functions were analyzed by CO2-TPD and H-2-TPR. The Pd-support interaction was studied by FTIR spectroscopy using CO as a probe molecule while the morphology of Pd nanoparticles on the catalysts was studied by SEM, HRTEM, and theoretical simulation using the Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) method. Finally, the catalytic activity results showed a higher conversion towards hydrocinnamaldehyde in the cinnamaldehyde hydrogenation reaction for the catalysts prepared by vapour phase thermal decomposition, compared with those prepared by organic method, showing the significant dependence on the catalytic activity and the Pd incorporation method.