There’s something wonderful about walking into a home that smells like Christmas.

The first time I ever made a simmer pot was when I was a young mom, just learning how to cook from scratch. A pot of orange peels and cinnamon sticks gently simmering on the stove became part of that journey—a humble start to cultivating warmth and beauty in our home. Today, those pots carry a deeper meaning. They're woven into our seasonal rhythms, with the scent of cranberries, cinnamon, evergreens, and frankincense bringing comfort and clarity to the Advent and Christmas season.

Learn how to make your house smell like Christmas with this cozy DIY simmer pot recipe using oranges, cranberries, cinnamon, and spices—perfect for natural holiday scents, stovetop potpourri gifts, and slow winter living.

Here’s what you’ll find:

• My favorite Christmas simmer pot recipe with cozy, natural ingredients
• Creative stovetop potpourri variations for winter and fall
• Tips for using dehydrated ingredients or gifting as DIY holiday potpourri
• How this slow tradition anchors the home in peace and presence

The Legal Stuff

This post is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider before using herbs medicinally. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you choose to make a purchase through them. Your support means the world—thank you!

Why Every Home Needs a Christmas Simmer Pot

A stovetop potpourri is more than just a holiday air freshener. It’s a way to slow down and savor the season with all five senses.

• Instant coziness: The gentle steam and aroma turn even the busiest kitchen into a peaceful haven.
• Natural and nontoxic: No need for synthetic scents—just citrus, herbs, and spice.
• Mindful homemaking: A quiet pot simmering reminds us to pause and remember God's presence is always there.
• Rooted in tradition: The scent of cinnamon brings me back to handmade applesauce ornaments as a child. And Grandma’s cranberry jello salad? It wouldn't be Christmas without it.

How to Make a Cozy Christmas Simmer Pot

Whether you’re avoiding synthetic fragrances or simply want to add the smell of old-fashioned scents to your home, this stovetop potpourri brings comforting fragrance and calm to your space. It’s easy, beautiful, and makes your home smell like the holidays.

Simmer Pot Variations for the Season

Switch up your stovetop potpourri with these seasonal blends:

Woodsy Winter Blend

• Pine or cedar sprigs
• Juniper berries
• Dried orange peel
• Cinnamon and nutmeg

Fall-Inspired Simmer Pot

• Apple peels and slices
• Cinnamon sticks
• Whole cloves
• Cardamom pods
• Bay leaf

DIY Gift Jar

• Layer dried orange slices, cranberries, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and a vanilla bean in a clear jar.
• Include a label with instructions: "Simmer with 3 cups of water and enjoy the scent of the season."

Leaning into the Stillness: Simmer Pot Q&A

What is a simmer pot?
It’s a blend of herbs, spices, and fruit simmered in water to gently scent your home, typically containing spices like cinnamon, oranges, and cloves.

Can I reuse a simmer pot?
Yes. Store in the fridge and reuse for up to three days, adding more water as needed.

What’s the best pot to use?
A small saucepan, glass simmer pot, the top of the wood stove or even a mini crockpot works beautifully.

How do I give a simmer pot as a gift?
Dehydrate the ingredients, layer in a canning jar, and add a festive label. Then, decorate the lid with a piece of fabric and a bow. It’s a heartfelt, low-cost gift.

From Our Heart to Your Home

There’s something about the simple act of simmering herbs and fruit that reminds me to take a deep breath and notice God's presence is always there, even in the small. Whether it’s the scent of orange zest or the gentle swirl of cinnamon steam, these moments call us back to what matters: the warmth of home, the comfort of tradition, and the blessings that God has sent.

If you’d like more cozy inspiration like this, I’d love to share my Handmade Christmas Gifts E-book with you—it's full of recipes, gift ideas, and creative ways to savor this season. Consider it my little gift from one homemaker’s heart to another. (It's free November-December).

There’s no need for fancy decor or expensive candles to create a cozy home. A handful of herbs and citrus in a pot of water can fill the house with the scent of hope and welcome. Simmer slowly, appreciate the blessings and gifts that God has sent, and savor the stillness of this season we have been given in order to contemplate and give thanks to Him who created us.

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