Aromatic Holiday Spice Simmer Recipe

This aromatic holiday spice simmer is something I put on when the house needs a little warmth and calm, especially during the busy stretch of the holidays. It’s not about being fancy or precise—it’s about letting a pot gently steam on the stove while the day unfolds. I usually start it in the afternoon, refresh the water as needed, and let the scent quietly carry through the evening.

I started making spice simmers years ago when I wanted a softer alternative to candles, especially during long winter days when windows stay closed. This version came together after a few holidays of experimenting with different spice combinations. I wanted something cozy but balanced, with warmth from spices and brightness from citrus that wouldn’t feel overwhelming after hours of simmering.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Simmering spices and citrus to scent the home dates back centuries, long before commercial air fresheners existed. Whole spices like cinnamon and cloves were commonly used because they released fragrance slowly and held up well over time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Naturally scented: No artificial fragrances
• Warm and comforting: Instantly changes the feel of the space
• Low effort: Minimal prep, very flexible
• Customizable: Easy to adjust with what you have
• Reusable: Can be refreshed and simmered again
• Holiday-ready: Feels festive without being overpowering
• Family-friendly: Safe and alcohol-free

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Use low heat: Gentle steam gives the cleanest aroma
• Stick with whole spices: They last longer and smell smoother
• Refresh with water: Add more as it evaporates
• Crush spices lightly: Helps release aroma faster

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

1. Small to medium saucepan: Heavy-bottomed preferred
2. Knife and cutting board: For slicing citrus
3. Wooden spoon: Optional, for stirring
4. Stovetop burner: Low and steady heat

Ingredients in This Recipe

1. Orange slices or peels: Bright, sweet citrus aroma
2. Whole cinnamon sticks: Warm and grounding
3. Whole cloves: Deep, classic holiday spice
4. Star anise: Adds subtle licorice warmth
5. Fresh ginger slices: Gentle heat and freshness
6. Allspice berries: Rounded, cozy spice notes
7. Water: Carries and releases fragrance

Ingredient Substitutions

• Orange → mandarin or clementine: Slightly sweeter scent
• Star anise → extra cinnamon: For a simpler profile
• Fresh ginger → dried ginger: Use a small pinch
• Allspice berries → nutmeg: Add very sparingly

Ingredient Spotlight

• Citrus peels: Release fragrant oils slowly when heated
• Whole spices: Hold their aroma without turning bitter

Festive Seasonal Spice Simmer

This simmering spice mixture involves combining orange zest, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and other aromatic ingredients in water over gentle heat. As it cooks, the mixture releases a fragrant, flavorful aroma with a warm, slightly spiced appearance, creating a cozy ambiance. The process transforms simple ingredients into a fragrant, aromatic liquid that infuses the home with holiday scents.

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Holiday

Calories: 50

Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients

  

• Orange slices or peels: Bright sweet citrus aroma
• Whole cinnamon sticks: Warm and grounding
• Whole cloves: Deep classic holiday spice
• Star anise: Adds subtle licorice warmth
• Fresh ginger slices: Gentle heat and freshness
• Allspice berries: Rounded cozy spice notes
• Water: Carries and releases fragrance

Equipment

• Small to medium saucepan: Heavy-bottomed preferred
• Knife and cutting board: For slicing citrus
• Wooden spoon: Optional, for stirring
• Stovetop burner: Low and steady heat

Method

 

1. Add ingredients to pot: Place citrus, spices, and water into a saucepan
2. Heat gently: Bring to a light simmer over low heat
3. Reduce heat: Keep just below a boil
4. Simmer: Let it steam for 1–3 hours
5. Refresh as needed: Add water to maintain level

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Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Refrigerate leftovers: Store ingredients in water up to 2 days
• Reheat gently: Add fresh water before simmering again
• Discard after second use: Aroma weakens over time

How to Use This Simmer

• Daily comfort: Run while cooking or relaxing
• Before guests arrive: Start about 30 minutes ahead
• Evening routine: Let it simmer during downtime

Creative Leftover Transformations

• Outdoor simmer: Use on a portable burner
• Holiday refresh: Add cranberries or rosemary
• Second-day simmer: Add fresh citrus slices

Additional Tips

• Use citrus peels: Especially after juicing
• No exact measurements needed: Adjust freely
• Trust your nose: Strength is personal

Make It a Showstopper

• Use a clear pot: Let spices and citrus be visible
• Add fresh garnishes: New orange slices or herbs
• Let it simmer during gatherings: Subtle but memorable

Variations to Try

• Cranberry spice: Add fresh cranberries
• Vanilla warmth: Add a split vanilla bean
• Piney winter: Add rosemary or bay leaf
• Extra citrus: Add lemon or grapefruit peel
• Minimalist: Cinnamon and orange only

FAQ’s

1. Is this safe to leave on for hours?: Yes, on low heat with water monitored
2. Can I drink this?: No, it’s for scent only
3. Can I use a slow cooker?: Yes, on LOW
4. How strong is the aroma?: Gentle and steady
5. Can I reuse the ingredients?: Usually once
6. Is it pet-safe?: Generally yes, with ventilation
7. Do I need to sweeten it?: No
8. Can I use ground spices?: Whole spices work best
9. Will it scent the whole house?: Best for nearby rooms
10. Can I customize it?: Absolutely

Himani Jawa

Hi there! I’m Himani and welcome to Val’s Recipe Box. This little corner of the internet didn’t begin with me. It began with Val my neighbourhood aunt whose kitchen held more warmth than any fireplace ever could.