This apple cinnamon fall simmering potpourri is something I put on almost instinctively once the air turns crisp. It’s simple and familiar, the kind of scent that quietly settles into the background while you go about your day. I usually start it in the afternoon and let it simmer while I cook dinner or tidy up—it makes the whole house feel warmer without calling too much attention to itself.

I started making apple-based simmers when I realized I always had apples around in the fall, even ones that were a little past their prime for eating. Paired with cinnamon, they create a scent that feels grounded and seasonal without being overpowering. This version is the one I keep coming back to because it stays balanced even after simmering for hours.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Simmering apples and spices to scent the home dates back to times when people relied on natural ingredients instead of candles or sprays. Apples and cinnamon became a classic pairing because they were affordable, widely available, and held their fragrance well when gently heated.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Naturally fragrant: No artificial scents
Classic fall aroma: Apple and cinnamon feel instantly familiar
Low effort: Minimal prep and no measuring stress
Reusable: Can be refreshed and simmered again
Customizable: Easy to adjust strength
Family-friendly: Alcohol-free and gentle
Perfect for everyday use: Not just for special occasions

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Use low heat: Gentle steam gives the cleanest scent
Slice apples thick: Helps them last longer
Stick with whole cinnamon sticks: Ground spices can turn bitter
Refresh with water: Add more as it evaporates

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Small to medium saucepan: Heavy-bottomed works best
Knife and cutting board: For slicing apples
Measuring cup: For water
Stovetop burner: Low, steady heat

Ingredients in This Recipe

Fresh apples: Provide a soft, naturally sweet aroma
Whole cinnamon sticks: Warm and grounding spice
Whole cloves (optional): Add depth and classic fall warmth
Star anise (optional): Subtle licorice note
Orange peel (optional): Adds brightness and balance
Water: Carries and releases the fragrance

Ingredient Substitutions

Fresh apples → dried apple slices: More concentrated scent
Cinnamon sticks → cassia bark: Slightly stronger cinnamon note
Cloves → allspice berries: Softer, rounder spice
Orange peel → lemon peel: Brighter citrus edge

Ingredient Spotlight

Apples: Release a gentle, cozy aroma as they warm
Cinnamon sticks: Hold their fragrance without overpowering

Autumn Simmering Potpourri

This simmering potpourri involves gently heating a blend of apple slices, cinnamon sticks, and other aromatic ingredients on the stove. The mixture releases a warm, festive fragrance with a cozy, simmered appearance, filling the kitchen with seasonal scent and creating a soothing ambiance.

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 30

Total Time 35

Servings: 1

Course: Soup

Cuisine: Seasonal

Calories: 10

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

Fresh apples: Provide a soft naturally sweet aroma
Whole cinnamon sticks: Warm and grounding spice
Whole cloves optional: Add depth and classic fall warmth
Star anise optional: Subtle licorice note
Orange peel optional: Adds brightness and balance
Water: Carries and releases the fragrance

Equipment

Small to medium saucepan: Heavy-bottomed works best
Knife and cutting board: For slicing apples
Measuring cup: For water
Stovetop burner: Low, steady heat

Method

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

Notes

Feel free to add other aromatic ingredients like orange slices or star anise. Keep an eye on the water level and adjust heat as needed to prevent boiling over or burning.

You can also try out other recipes

Apple Cider Pork Roast

Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe

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 fades 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

Second-day simmer: Add fresh apple slices
Holiday twist: Add cranberries or rosemary
Outdoor use: Simmer on a portable burner

Additional Tips

Use apple peels: Especially after baking or cooking
No exact measurements needed: Adjust freely
Trust your nose: Strength is personal

Make It a Showstopper

Use a clear pot: Let apples and spices be visible
Add fresh cinnamon sticks: For visual warmth
Simmer during gatherings: Subtle but memorable

Variations to Try

Apple orange cinnamon: Add citrus slices
Vanilla apple: Add a split vanilla bean
Spiced orchard: Add cardamom pods
Extra cozy: Add nutmeg sparingly
Minimalist: Apples and cinnamon only

FAQ’s

Can I use any type of apple?: Yes, all varieties work
Is this safe to simmer for hours?: Yes, on low heat with water monitored
Can I drink this?: No, it’s for scent only
Can I use a slow cooker?: Yes, on LOW
How strong is the scent?: Gentle and steady
Can I reuse the ingredients?: Usually once
Is it pet-safe?: Generally yes, with ventilation
Do I need to add sugar?: No
Can I use ground cinnamon?: Whole sticks are best
Will it scent the whole house?: Best for nearby rooms

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.