Anjali Arora
Some days, I crave more than just the scent of fall — I want my entire home to carry that cozy, cinnamon-infused aura. The secret? A simmering potpourri that turns your kitchen into a fragrant escape, and it’s surprisingly simple to prepare. It’s like baking a pumpkin pie, but instead of eating it, you get to inhale the warm, spiced air.
What sets this apart is how customizable it is—add a splash of orange zest or a few star anise for extra charm. The scent wafts slowly through your space, evoking childhood memories of family kitchens and chilly autumn afternoons. Once you start simmering, your home will feel undeniably inviting, long after the ingredients have simmered away.
WHY I LOVE THIS RECIPE?
- It transforms my home into a fall sanctuary with minimal effort.
- The aroma sparks joy and nostalgia with every waft of cinnamon and cloves.
- I love how it makes my space smell like a cozy pumpkin patch.
- It’s a fun, sensory way to celebrate the season without baking or candles.
- Perfect for creating a welcoming vibe on chilly mornings or festive gatherings.
AVOID MY DISASTER (You’re Welcome)
- FORGOT to add water? The pot boiled dry and smoked—remember to keep the water level topped up.
- DUMPED too much cinnamon? The scent became overpowering—use a conservative pinch for balance.
- OVER-TORCHED the mixture? Burnt smell fouled the air—set a timer to prevent it.
- SPILLED the ingredients? Wipe quickly, or your stove will smell spicy for days.
QUICK FIXES THAT SAVE YOUR DAY
- When scent weakens, splash a little more water and simmer longer.
- Immerse a citrus peel for an instant bright, fresh aroma.
- Spritz a touch of essential oil if the scent fades too quickly.
- Shield the pot with a splatter guard to prevent mess and burning.
- When in doubt, add a cinnamon stick—smell shifts instantly to cozy sweetness.
As fall deepens, this simmering potpourri becomes more than just decoration; it’s an experience. Watching the steam rise and fill your space with warm spice makes everything feel a little more special. Plus, it’s a natural, cozy way to welcome the season’s chill.
Finally, once the simmering is done, just turn off the heat and enjoy the lingering scent. It’s a gentle reminder that sometimes, the simplest pleasures—like a pot filled with fall spices—are what truly make home feel comforting. No matter the day, this recipe adds a touch of seasonal magic to even the busiest schedules.
Fall-inspired Simmering Potpourri
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Fill a saucepan with water and place it on the stove over medium heat.
- Add the whole cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise (if using) to the water. Gently stir to distribute the spices.
- Grate the orange zest directly into the water, allowing the fragrant oils to infuse as it steeps.
- Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer; you should see small bubbles forming around the edges.
- Reduce the heat to low, then let the mixture simmer uncovered for about 20-30 minutes, allowing the aroma to fully develop and fill your space.
- Occasionally check that the water level remains above the ingredients, adding a little more water if necessary to prevent burning or drying out.
- Once the scent is fragrant and your home is filled with warm spice aroma, turn off the heat and carefully ladle the mixture into a heatproof bowl or simply leave it in the pot to continue simmering on very low if desired.
Notes
Whether you’re hosting guests or just craving a little seasonal atmosphere, this pumpkin spice simmering potpourri offers a fragrant escape. It’s a small, easy ritual that makes everything feel a tad more festive. Plus, it’s a gentle reminder to slow down and savor the warmth of the season.
As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, filling your home with this inviting scent becomes a cozy tradition. No matter how hectic life gets, a pot of spices simmering on the stove is a warm, fragrant anchor—a simple pleasure that never gets old.
Hi, I’m Anjali Arora — the curious heart behind Feast Chase.
To be honest, I’ve always felt most at ease in my own company. I’m not exactly a people-person (small talk still makes me cringe), but there are two things I’ve always loved deeply: animals and food.