As the holiday season approaches, there’s a certain magic in the air that goes beyond the twinkling lights and festive decorations. One way to capture the essence of Christmas and infuse your home with warmth and cheer is through the enchanting tradition of a Christmas simmer pot. I love to make simmer pots. I make them all year round, but my favorite seasons for simmer pots are Christmas and Fall.
This recipe will make your house smell like Christmas! It also makes a super easy and cute DIY gift when you put the dry ingredients in a mason jar and tie it up with a bow! You can add a simple label explaining to “just add ingredients with water to a pot a simmer”.
Ingredients:
- Cinnamon Sticks: The unmistakable scent of cinnamon is a staple in holiday festivities. Adding a few cinnamon sticks to your simmer pot releases a comforting fragrance that instantly transports you to a winter wonderland.
- Whole Cloves: The earthy, spicy aroma of whole cloves complements the sweetness of cinnamon, creating a symphony of scents that embodies the spirit of Christmas. Just a few of these tiny wonders go a long way in infusing your home with warmth.
- Orange Slices: The citrusy notes of fresh orange slices add a burst of freshness to your simmer pot, balancing the rich, warm spices. As the oranges release their oils, the air is filled with a zesty fragrance that is both uplifting and invigorating.
- Cranberries: Not just a festive garnish, cranberries bring a tart and vibrant element to your simmer pot. Their ruby red hue not only adds visual appeal but also contributes to the overall sensory experience.
- Fresh Rosemary: The woody and herbal aroma of fresh rosemary adds depth to the simmer pot, reminiscent of a stroll through a fragrant winter garden. It complements the other ingredients, creating a complex and inviting fragrance.
- Fresh Mint: Mint adds a cool and refreshing twist to the mix, balancing out the warmth of the spices. The combination of mint with other aromatic ingredients creates a delightful harmony that awakens the senses.
- Christmas Tree Branch: Elevate your simmer pot experience by adding a small Christmas tree branch. The resinous scent of pine needles brings the outdoors inside, evoking memories of decorating the tree and cozying up by the fireplace.
Instructions:
Creating a Christmas simmer pot is as easy as combining these aromatic ingredients in a pot of water on the stove. Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat, releasing the fragrant oils and enveloping your home in a comforting embrace. You can adjust the quantities based on personal preference, and feel free to experiment with other festive additions like apple slices, nutmeg, or vanilla beans.
Simmer pots are a great alternative to scented candles. They are a natural way to bring warm and cozy scents into your home. I hope you love this simple Christmas simmer pot recipe! If you love it try some of my Fall Simmer Pot Recipes.
