There’s something about this time of year that makes me want to slow down, cozy up, and fill my home with all the scents of the season. And one of my favorite traditions—one I started years ago—is making a homemade holiday simmer pot recipe for my own home and sharing pot gifts with family and friends.
Last year I must have made a dozen because once people smelled the warm spices drifting through the entire house, they immediately wanted their own. And honestly? I don’t blame them. These are such a great way to make your home smell like the holidays without any harsh fragrances. Just natural ingredients, whole spices, and fresh ingredients that you probably already have on hand.
What I love most, though, is that these homemade gifts feel so personal. It’s a simple gesture, but it’s meaningful. When you hand someone a small bundle of simmer pot ingredients, you’re giving them the smell of Christmas—something warm, comforting, and inviting. These are the kinds of gifts people remember… and use!
So today, I’m sharing my go-to homemade easy holiday simmer pot recipe. It uses a handful of ingredients, takes just minutes to assemble, and instantly fills your home with the most beautiful christmas smell.
Easy Holiday Simmer Pot Ingredients
Here’s exactly what I use:
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1 teaspoon of whole cloves
- 2–3 orange slices
- 1 cup of fresh cranberries
- A splash of vanilla
- Rosemary sprigs
- Optional but delightful additions: star anise, whole spices, or even a sprinkle of ground spices if needed
These simple ingredients come together to create the perfect Christmas simmer pot—fresh, cozy, and full of holiday spirit.
How to Make the Simmer Pot
You can make this on the stove top or in the slow cooker depending on what’s easiest:
Stove Top Method
- Fill a pot of water with 3–4 cups of water.
- Add all of your simmer pot ingredients.
- Bring to low heat and let everything warm slowly.
- Add more cups of water as needed to keep the water level from getting too low.
Slow Cooker Method
- Add your ingredients to a small slow cooker.
- Pour in enough cups of water to cover them.
- Set to low heat and let it gently fill your own home with the most comforting home smell.
For best results, keep an eye on the water level so the ingredients don’t dry out. You can usually let a simmer pot run for 2–3 days by simply adding fresh water. The next day it often smells even better as the warm spices blend together.
Why This Makes Such a Great Gift
There’s just something special about giving someone something handmade. It feels thoughtful and memorable, especially during the holiday season. This holiday simmer pot can be packaged so easily:
- Add the ingredients to a clear bag or jar
- Tie with twine or ribbon
- Add a little tag with directions
- Optional: tuck in a sprig of rosemary or star anise for an extra beautiful touch
It’s such a great addition to teacher gifts, hostess gifts, neighbor gifts, or stocking stuffers. And the best way to make someone smile is to hand them something that makes their whole house smell like joy.
These pot gifts are always loved because they use natural ingredients and feel so nostalgic—like something our grandmothers might have simmered on the stove during the holidays.
If you make one, let us know how you like it!
