Save it
Fill your space with holiday vibes by whipping up some Stovetop Christmas Potpourri. This easy, chemical-free way to get that Christmas smell works great when family drops by or as a heartfelt DIY present. It's an old-school tradition that makes any room feel like a cozy holiday hideaway.
Seasonal Wonder From Your Stove
Whenever I cook up this mix, my place gets flooded with flashbacks to Christmas as a kid. The mix of citrus with spices makes everyone feel right at home and ready to celebrate. It's amazing how these basic items can turn a regular day into something magical.
Your Ingredients
- Oranges: Cut in rounds or chunks for zesty scent. Try lemons or grapefruit as alternatives.
- Fresh Cranberries: Gives color pop and slight tang.
- Rosemary Sprigs: Offers an evergreen smell, just like Christmas trees.
- Cinnamon Sticks: Gives off a toasty, spiced smell that hangs around longer than powder.
- Whole Cloves: Just a handful deepens the holiday aroma.
Let's Create It
- Cut Citrus
- Slice oranges into rounds or wedges to help them release more fragrance.
- Mix Everything
- Add citrus, cranberries, rosemary, cinnamon sticks, and cloves to a pot with 4-6 cups of water.
- Heat Gently
- Set to a low heat. Don't let it boil and watch the water, topping it up when it gets low.
- Relax
- Let it warm for hours, and your home will smell just like Christmas.
Add Your Personal Touch
I've learned this potpourri makes fantastic gifts. I love putting the stuff in see-through bags with fancy ribbons. The orange slices cranberries and herbs look so pretty together and it's such a cool way to share some holiday cheer with folks you care about.
Make It Last
My go-to hack is using a crockpot when guests come over. The water stays put longer and I can move it anywhere I want. I've also started keeping unused potpourri in my fridge which lets me use it again over several days by just adding fresh water when I warm it up again.
Save it
Common Questions
- → Can I make swaps with ingredients?
- Totally! Switch oranges for lemons, try diced apples instead of cranberries, or swap whole spices for ground ones. Vanilla’s sweet touch works great too.
- → How long should I let it simmer?
- As long as you’d like! Just keep adding water to make sure it doesn’t dry up.
- → Which is easier—stovetop or slow cooker?
- Both are great options. Stovetop works quickly, but slow cooker lasts longer. Keep it covered for water savings, or uncover to boost the scent.
- → Where can I find whole spices?
- Check out bulk spice bins at stores like Sprouts or specialty stores like World Market—they're usually stocked there.
- → How do I package it as a present?
- Grab see-through cellophane bags, layer your ingredients, and seal with a cute ribbon. Don’t forget to include simple usage directions.