Nothing beats walking into a house that smells like fall. Warm pumpkin spice, dried citrus, hints of vanilla and pine — the type of scent that makes you immediately want to cuddle up in a blanket for movie night.
That is the point of potpourri: A mix of dried flowers, herbs, spices and fruit peels that work to release a fragrance slowly and naturally in a room.
This fall, we’re doing it two ways: a stovetop simmer pot to fill your whole home with scent, and a dried, bagged version you can gift to friends and family or store for later use.
Simmer Pots
A simmer pot, also called a stovetop potpourri, is a pot of water that is filled with herbs, spices and dried fruit, and then simmered low and slowly to create aromatic steam.
According to an article from Mountain Rose Herbs, it is a natural way to create a seasonal fragrance, as well as a wonderful excuse to use the spices sitting in the back of your pantry.
For heat, simmer it on the stove over low heat or on a candle warmer for less maintenance.
Don’t use a special pot. Some spices can stain.
Every 45 minutes to an hour, make sure there’s enough water in the pot. If the pot runs out of water, the botanicals can become scorched and ruin your pot.
Build Your Own Blend
There is no perfect combination. Just pick a few of your favorites from the list below and mix and match based on what you have on hand or what you’re in the mood for this fall.
- Pumpkin pie spice
- Cinnamon sticks
- Whole clove
- Fresh rosemary sprigs
- A pine cone
- Dried orange slices
- Dried apple slices
- A pinch of allspice and nutmeg
- Star anise pods
- Vanilla bean, sliced down the middle, or a splash of vanilla extract
- Lemon peel
- Fresh ginger root, sliced
- Fresh or dried cranberries
- A splash of maple extract
- A small piece of amber resin
If you are struggling to choose, pick two to three base ingredients, such as cinnamon sticks and dried apple slices, then add one or two accents, like maple extract and star anise.
Turn It Into a Gift
If you are looking for something special to offer to friends or family this fall, this is the perfect handmade gift.
Dry your chosen ingredients and portion them into small tea bags or clear cellophane bags tied off with a fall-covered ribbon.
You can also store your potpourri for later by placing it in a mason jar or an airtight container, ready to use whenever you want to embrace the autumn spirit.