Personally, I feel like there is a lot of stigma around the idea of ‘potpourri.’ I am immediately reminded of dusty bowls of weird dried things that smell like really bad perfume. No, thank you. Recently, I stumbled upon the idea of a stovetop potpourri (thanks, Pinterest) and was intrigued. I love the idea of using fresh, natural ingredients from my pantry to make my home smell amazing. Plus, it’s yet another excuse to use our freshly renovated kitchen! I experimented a bit and came up with 3 go-to stovetop potpourri recipes that are perfect for fall and the holiday season — especially with the potential for houseguests.
Make Your Home Smell Festive with These 3 Stovetop Potpourri Recipes
What is stovetop potpourri?
It’s pretty self-explanatory, but basically it is made of spices, fresh or dried fruit, extracts, and herbs combined into a pot of water. Then, the ingredients are simmered on low heat to release their fragrances. It’s a wonderful alternative to candles and diffusers — and spreads the fragrance faster. Plus, you probably have most of the ingredients on hand in your pantry!
The basics of setting up a stovetop potpourri combination is pretty easy: put a pot on your cooktop’s burner and add in all of the ingredients. Simmer the mixture on low heat, making sure to check on it periodically. I always start with 2 cups of water, but as it evaporates off, you can add more.
Stovetop Potpourri #1: Vanilla Spice
This combination is actually my ‘daily’ stovetop simmer recipe. It’s so easy and just makes our home smell fresh and cozy. It literally smells like you’ve been baking pies and cookies all day!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups water
- 1 tbsp whole cloves
- 3-4 cinnamon sticks
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 3-4 star anise
- 3 tsp nutmeg
- 3 tsp allspice
Directions:
Combine all ingredients in a pot or sauce pan. Then, simmer the mixture on low heat, making sure to check on it periodically. Add water as the steam evaporates.
Stovetop Potpourri #2: Citrus Ginger
Actually, I lied. This combination is another one that is perfect for everyday use and entertaining. The combination of orange and cloves is a classic for fall. Plus, it reminds me of when my grandma and mom make baklava!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups water
- 1 lemon, sliced about 1/4″ thick
- 1 orange, sliced about 1/4″ thick
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp minced ginger
- 1 tbsp whole cloves
Directions
Combine all ingredients in a pot or sauce pan. Then, simmer the mixture on low heat, making sure to check on it periodically. Add water as the steam evaporates.
Stovetop Potpourri #3: Cranberry & Rosemary
This combo is definitely more Christmas-y and festive. I love how the tartness of the cranberries really comes out and mingles with rosemary. Plus, the addition of juniper berries is a wonderful final touch.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup frozen cranberries
- 3 springs rosemary
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp juniper berries
Directions:
Combine all ingredients in a pot or sauce pan. Then, simmer the mixture on low heat, making sure to check on it periodically. Add water as the steam evaporates.
The next time you have guests, I suggest putting on a pot of potpourri to make your home feel inviting and cozy! And, honestly, these recipes are suggestions for each combination. If you prefer to add more vanilla and less clove, for example, it’s really easy to tweak and adjust. If you make any of these stovetop simmers, be sure to let me know how they turned out!
For more DIYs that will make your home smell amazing, check out these posts:
- Hidden Crystal Candle DIY
- Smudge Sticks Inspired by Fall
- Essential Oil Room Spray DIY
- My Easy Guide to Making Your Home Smell Amazing
- Fall Scented Candles to Cozy Up Your Home
- Eggnog Soy Wax Candle DIY with Essential Oils
