Anjali Arora
Sometimes, I find myself craving more than just the usual fall smells wafting through my home. Instead of a typical apple-scented candle, I discovered that simmering sliced apples with cinnamon creates an ever-evolving aroma that fills my kitchen and spills into the rest of the house. It’s a simple ritual that transforms the mundane into a fragrant escape.
Over the years, I’ve experimented with throwing in a few other spices and herbs, but the core remains the same: fresh apples and cinnamon. The gentle simmer releases a sweet, spicy cloud that makes everything feel more comforting. It’s a surprisingly tactile experience, watching the bubbles rise and smelling that warm scent drift out with each gentle crackle.
This recipe isn’t just about scent; it’s about reclaiming a moment of calm amidst busy days. It’s an unexpected way to celebrate the season or even lift a gloomy day with a little kitchen magic. Plus, it’s often more satisfying than any commercial air freshener or candle.
WHY I LOVE THIS RECIPE?
- It reminds me of childhood kitchens and cozy fall afternoons.
- The aroma shifts slowly, filling the house with a comforting, spicy sweetness.
- I love how simple ingredients create such a luxurious scent.
- It turns the everyday into a small, joyful ritual.
- There’s a satisfying chaos when the apples bubble and scent fills the air.
AVOID MY DISASTER (You’re Welcome)
- FORGOT to set a timer, the apples over-torched and baked onto the pot—surprisingly salvageable with soaking.
- DUMPED too much water, diluting the aroma—simply add more cinnamon and simmer longer.
- OVER-TORCHED the apples, leaving a burnt smell—quickly remove and add fresh apples with more cinnamon.
- FORGOT to watch the simmer, the liquid boiled dry—cover the pot and add more water if needed.
QUICK FIXES THAT SAVE YOUR DAY
- When smoke drifts, splash in a little vinegar to neutralize the burn smell.
- Patch with a splash of vanilla extract to restore sweetness and warmth.
- Shield with a lid when simmering too vigorously—simmer gently to avoid burning.
- When the scent weakens, add a few more cinnamon sticks for instant aroma boost.
- When the mixture shimmers, crack a few cloves into the pot for extra spice.
There’s something about this simmering process that makes even the gloomiest day feel a tiny bit brighter. The aroma clings to your clothes and lingers on the windowsills, turning your space into a cozy retreat. It’s a small ritual—one you’ll find yourself returning to, season after season.
As the weather turns colder, this humble simmer becomes a gentle reminder to slow down and enjoy the small comforts. It’s not just about the scent; it’s about creating a moment of warmth and mindfulness in your busy day. Sometimes, all it takes is a pot on the stove and the smell of cinnamon and apples to ground you right where you are.
Simmered Cinnamon Apples
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples, then place them into a pot.
- Add the water to the pot, ensuring the apple slices are submerged about halfway.
- Drop in the cinnamon sticks, spreading them among the apple slices for even flavor.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, hearing the liquid bubble softly.
- Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot, allowing the apples to soften and release their natural juices for about 20-25 minutes.
- Uncover the pot and stir gently to coat the apples with the fragrant cinnamon-infused liquid, watching as the apples become tender and slightly translucent.
- Allow the mixture to simmer uncovered for another 5-10 minutes to thicken slightly and intensify the aroma.
- Remove the cinnamon sticks and give the apples a final gentle stir. The apples should be soft but hold their shape, with a warm, spicy scent filling the air.
- Serve warm directly from the pot, spooned into bowls for a cozy treat or aromatic addition to your home ambiance.
Notes
In a fast-paced world, this simple simmer offers a pause—a chance to embrace calm and nostalgia. It’s amazing how a few slices of apple and a cinnamon stick can turn a kitchen into a sanctuary. This recipe is a gentle reminder that some of the most comforting moments are also the easiest to make.
Whether it’s for seasonal festivities or just a quiet afternoon, this cinnamon apple simmering pot has a way of making everything feel just a little more special. It’s a small act, but one that whispers a quiet promise of warmth and slow living—something we all need now and then.
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.