Easy Cinnamon Orange Simmer Pot

This easy cinnamon orange simmer pot is my favorite way to make the house smell like the holidays—or just like cozy comfort any time of year. With fresh orange slices, warm cinnamon sticks, and a handful of simple aromatic ingredients, I can create a natural home fragrance that’s soothing, inviting, and completely chemical-free. It simmers gently on the stove and fills every corner of my space with warm citrus-spice goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how effortless this simmer pot is to make, and the payoff is huge. It takes just a few minutes to put together, uses ingredients I already have in my kitchen, and smells better than any candle. Plus, I can customize it depending on the season or my mood. Whether I want to relax, feel festive, or just freshen the air, this is my go-to stovetop scent.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 orange, sliced

• 2–3 cinnamon sticks

• 1–2 teaspoons whole cloves

• 2–3 star anise (optional)

• 1–2 sprigs fresh rosemary or a few bay leaves (optional)

• 4–5 cups of water

Directions

1. I place all the ingredients in a medium saucepan and cover them with water.

2. I bring the pot to a gentle boil over medium heat.

3. Once it starts simmering, I reduce the heat to low and let it gently bubble away, uncovered.

4. I check the pot every 30–45 minutes and add more water as needed to keep it from drying out.

5. I let it simmer as long as I like—anywhere from an hour to several hours for lasting fragrance.

Servings and timing

This recipe is for one simmer pot (good for scenting a small to medium home).
Prep time: 5 minutes
Simmer time: 1–4 hours (as desired)

Variations

Sometimes I add apple slices or cranberries for a fruitier note. In fall, I toss in a bit of nutmeg or a splash of vanilla extract. Around the holidays, I like to add pine or fresh ginger slices. For a spring-inspired version, I swap the orange for lemon and add fresh mint or thyme. The combinations are endless—and all natural.

storage/reheating

I store the used simmer pot mixture in the fridge overnight (once it cools) and reuse it for up to 2–3 days. When I want to use it again, I just add fresh water and reheat it on the stove. The scent may be slightly more subtle the second time, but it’s still wonderful. I discard the mixture when the ingredients begin to break down or lose their fragrance.

FAQs

Can I use dried ingredients instead of fresh?

Yes, I can use dried orange peel, ground spices, or dried herbs if that’s what I have. The scent may be slightly different, but still enjoyable.

Is it safe to leave the simmer pot unattended?

No, I always keep an eye on it and make sure the water doesn’t run out. It’s important to top off the water regularly and turn off the heat if I’m leaving the room for long.

Can I use a slow cooker?

Absolutely. I set it to low and leave the lid off so the scent can fill the room. It’s a great way to keep the fragrance going all day.

How long does the scent last?

The scent fills the room within 10–15 minutes of simmering and can last for several hours. I can also reheat the same pot the next day to refresh the fragrance.

Does this clean the air?

While it won’t sanitize the air, it’s a natural alternative to chemical air fresheners and creates a calming atmosphere using real ingredients.

Conclusion

This easy cinnamon orange simmer pot is one of my favorite ways to make my home feel warm, welcoming, and relaxed. It’s quick to prepare, naturally fragrant, and completely customizable. Whether it’s a chilly afternoon, a holiday gathering, or just a moment of peace I’m craving, this simple blend of citrus and spice fills my home with joy.