This citrus spice simmer is something I put on whenever I want the house to smell warm and welcoming without lighting a candle. I usually make it on quiet afternoons or before guests come over, especially in the cooler months when citrus feels extra comforting. It’s simple, low-effort, and instantly changes the mood of the kitchen in a really natural way.

Plus, it’s an almost meditative process – just a pot on the stove, waiting to infuse your space with comforting aromas. If you enjoy cozy simmering scents, the Vanilla Cinnamon Simmering Pot offers a warm, nostalgic counterpart.

I started making simmer pots years ago after realizing how quickly scented candles can feel overwhelming. I wanted something softer and more real. This version came together after a winter where we always had extra oranges and lemons around, plus a drawer full of spices I wasn’t using enough. Now it’s my go-to whenever I want the house to feel calm and lived-in.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Simmer pots have been used for generations as a natural way to scent homes, especially before modern air fresheners existed. Citrus peels and whole spices were common because they release fragrance slowly and gently when warmed.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

All-natural scent: No artificial fragrances
Instant atmosphere: Makes the home feel warm and inviting
Customizable: Easy to adjust with what you have
Low effort: Minimal prep and attention
Reusable: Can be simmered multiple times
Seasonally flexible: Works in fall, winter, or early spring

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Use low heat: Gentle simmering releases scent without bitterness
Refresh with water: Add more as it evaporates
Lightly crush spices: Helps release aroma faster
Don’t rush it: The scent builds gradually

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Small saucepan or pot: Heavy-bottomed works best
Knife and cutting board: For slicing citrus
Wooden spoon: Optional, for stirring
Stove burner: Low and steady heat

Ingredients in This Recipe

Orange slices: Sweet, bright, and grounding
Lemon slices: Adds freshness and lift
Whole cinnamon sticks: Warm and comforting
Whole cloves: Deep, cozy spice
Star anise (optional): Adds subtle licorice warmth
Fresh ginger slices: Brings gentle heat and brightness
Water: Carries and releases the fragrance

Ingredient Substitutions

Orange → grapefruit: Slightly more bitter, very aromatic
Lemon → lime: Sharper and brighter
Cinnamon sticks → ground cinnamon: Use sparingly
Fresh ginger → dried ginger: Use a small pinch

Ingredient Spotlight

Citrus slices: The oils in the peel release slowly and scent the air naturally
Whole spices: They provide depth and warmth without overpowering

Citrus Spice Simmer

This citrus spice simmer is a fragrant liquid infused with orange peels, cinnamon, and warm spices. Using a gentle simmering method, it creates a flavorful, aromatic broth with a vibrant citrus aroma and a cozy spicy undertone. The final appearance is a warm, slightly cloudy, spiced citrus infusion ready to serve or enjoy as a comforting aromatic experience.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Servings: 4

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Comfort

Calories: 50

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

Orange slices: Sweet bright, and grounding
Lemon slices: Adds freshness and lift
Whole cinnamon sticks: Warm and comforting
Whole cloves: Deep cozy spice
Star anise optional: Adds subtle licorice warmth
Fresh ginger slices: Brings gentle heat and brightness
Water: Carries and releases the fragrance

Equipment

Small saucepan or pot: Heavy-bottomed works best
Knife and cutting board: For slicing citrus
Wooden spoon: Optional, for stirring
Stove burner: Low and steady heat

Method

Slice the citrus: Thin slices work best
Add ingredients to pot: Place citrus and spices in the saucepan
Cover with water: Enough to fully submerge ingredients
Bring to a gentle simmer: Heat on low to medium-low
Reduce heat: Maintain a light simmer, not a boil
Refresh as needed: Add water when the level drops

Notes

Feel free to adjust the sweetness or spice level to your preference. For a non-alcoholic version, skip any added spirits or extracts. Best enjoyed warm and fresh.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Refrigerate leftovers: Store ingredients in water for up to 2 days
Reheat gently: Add fresh water before simmering again
Compost after use: All ingredients are biodegradable

How to Use This Simmer

Daily comfort: Run while working or relaxing
Before guests arrive: Start 30 minutes ahead
Evening routine: Simmer during dinner prep

Creative Leftover Transformations

Second-day simmer: Refresh with new citrus slices
Outdoor use: Simmer on a portable burner for patios
Holiday blend: Add cranberries or rosemary

Additional Tips

Use peels only: Especially after juicing citrus
Experiment freely: No exact measurements required
Trust your nose: Adjust ingredients to preference

Make It a Showstopper

Use a clear pot: Let the citrus and spices be visible
Add fresh herbs: Rosemary or thyme looks beautiful
Serve as ambiance: Simmer during gatherings for subtle impact

Variations to Try

Citrus rosemary: Add fresh rosemary sprigs
Apple spice: Swap citrus for apple slices
Vanilla warmth: Add a split vanilla bean
Holiday blend: Cranberries, orange, and clove
Spring fresh: Lemon, thyme, and ginger

FAQ’s

Is this safe to leave on all day?: Yes, on low heat with water monitored
Can I eat the ingredients?: No, this is for scent only
How strong is the smell?: Gentle and natural
Can I use dried citrus?: Yes, but fresh is stronger
Does it replace candles?: For many people, yes
Can I reuse it?: Usually 1–2 times
Will it scent the whole house?: Best for nearby rooms
Can I do this in a slow cooker?: Yes, on LOW
Is it pet-safe?: Generally yes, but ventilate well
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.