Christmas Simmering Scent

Featured in Cool sips for any mood.

Simmer simple ingredients to spread holiday cheer in your home or package it as a heartfelt gift. Works on the stovetop or in a slow cooker.
alicia in the kitchen
Updated on Thu, 15 May 2025 13:10:50 GMT
A pot of simmering cranberries, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, and rosemary in water. Pin it
A pot of simmering cranberries, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, and rosemary in water. | tasteofsavor.com

Fill your place with that warm, classic holiday scent using Stovetop Christmas Potpourri. This easy and all-natural way makes any get-together feel cheerful and is even thoughtful to give to someone you care about. It’s a sweet tradition that makes your spot extra cozy for the holidays.

Delightful Holiday Pot Magic

Whenever I let this potpourri simmer, it brings me right back to fun Christmas days as a kid. Citrus mixed with spicy notes just makes everyone happy and sets the mood. Who knew a few everyday items could turn a regular afternoon into something magical?

What to Grab

  • Whole Cloves: Just a handful packs a ton of holiday depth into the air.
  • Cinnamon Sticks: These give off that long-lasting, warm sweetness you want.
  • Rosemary Sprigs: Their smell is kind of like a pine tree—so Christmasy.
  • Fresh Cranberries: They look lovely floating in the water and add a gentle tart kick.
  • Oranges: Slice or quarter them to get that awesome citrus punch, or swap for lemons or grapefruit.

Let’s Do This

Enjoy
Leave the potpourri to bubble gently for as long as you like and let your home soak up that festive scent.
Simmer on Stove
Set your stove to low heat and watch the water from time to time so it doesn’t run out—add more water if you notice it getting low.
Combine Ingredients
Toss your orange pieces, cranberries, sprigs of rosemary, cinnamon sticks, and some cloves into a pot and pour in 4–6 cups of water.
Slice Citrus
Start by chopping oranges into slices or chunks for that juicy aroma boost.

Take It up a Notch

I found out these jars of potpourri are awesome gifts. I like to scoop the goodies into clear bags and finish with a bright ribbon. The oranges, cranberries, and greens look super cheerful—plus, handing someone a bag is an easy way to brighten their day and share some holiday cheer.

Keep the Joy Flowing

When I’ve got company, using my slow cooker is my favorite move because the water lasts way longer. Plus, I can move it to any room super easily. Afterward, I stash leftovers in the fridge, then just pour in more water next time to relive that vibe for days.

A dish packed with orange slices, cranberries, sticks of cinnamon, and sprigs of rosemary. Pin it
A dish packed with orange slices, cranberries, sticks of cinnamon, and sprigs of rosemary. | tasteofsavor.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use different ingredients?
Totally! Use apples instead of cranberries, try different citrus fruits, swap whole spices for ground ones, or add a splash of vanilla for extra sweetness.
→ How long can I keep it simmering?
As long as you want! Just keep adding water so it doesn’t dry up.
→ Is stovetop or slow cooker better?
Both are great! Stovetop gives fast results, slow cooker works for all-day scents. Keep a slow cooker uncovered for strong aromas or covered to save water.
→ Where can I buy whole spices?
Check bulk spice bins at places like Sprouts or specialty shops like World Market.
→ What’s a good way to gift this?
Grab large treat bags, layer the ingredients with the big ones first, tie them with ribbon, and give it a cute tag with instructions.

Conclusion

Simmer simple ingredients to spread holiday cheer in your home or package it as a heartfelt gift. Works on the stovetop or in a slow cooker.

Christmas Simmering Scent

Warm up your home with the festive aroma of cranberries, oranges, rosemary, and spices. Easy to make and perfect for gifting.

Prep Time
5 Minutes
Cook Time
30 Minutes
Total Time
35 Minutes
By: Alicia

Category: Beverages

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: Handmade Projects

Yield: 1 Servings (One stack)

Dietary: Low-Carb, Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

01 One orange.
02 One cup of cranberries (swap with diced apple if you'd like).
03 A couple cinnamon sticks (two to three).
04 Few rosemary sprigs—about two or three.
05 Two teaspoons of whole cloves.
06 Anywhere from four to six cups of water.
07 Gift bags (large, treat-size).
08 Punch tool for holes (for wrapping).
09 Ribbon for adding a nice touch to gifts.

Instructions

Step 01

Cut up the orange. Mix everything with water in a pot. Heat on low, and keep adding more water when it runs low.

Step 02

Throw all the ingredients into the cooker with water. Cover it and let it cook on high for a few hours. For a stronger smell, leave it uncovered.

Step 03

Start with the orange slices and cranberries in a plastic bag. Layer in the herbs and spices after. Close the bag with a ribbon, and attach a tag if you'd like.

Notes

  1. Feel free to try this with other citrus options.
  2. Ground spices work fine as substitutes.
  3. Make sure to keep adding water if it evaporates.

Tools You'll Need

  • A slow cooker or saucepan.
  • Plastic gift wraps or bags.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: ~
  • Total Fat: ~
  • Total Carbohydrate: ~
  • Protein: ~