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Autumn Pumpkin and Spice Simmer Potpourri

This simmering potpourri combines real pumpkin, cinnamon, cloves, and other fall spices simmered in water to release a warm, aromatic fragrance. The mixture creates a cozy, visually appealing simmer with bubbling liquid and fragrant steam, filling the space with seasonal scents. It is a simple, natural way to bring the essence of autumn indoors.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 1
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Seasonal
Calories: 20
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • ½ cup fresh pumpkin, cubed or canned pumpkin puree
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon stick
  • 3 cloves whole cloves
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract optional, for extra warmth

Equipment

  • Saucepan or large pot
  • Ladle or slotted spoon

Method
 

  1. Add the pumpkin cubes or puree to your saucepan, then pour in water.
  2. Toss in the cinnamon stick, whole cloves, and ground nutmeg into the mixture.
  3. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, listening for a soft bubbling sound.
  4. As the mixture heats, notice the aroma filling the room, with warm scents of cinnamon and pumpkin intensifying.
  5. Reduce the heat slightly to keep a steady, gentle simmer, ensuring the spices and pumpkin infuse the water evenly.
  6. After about 20 to 30 minutes, the mixture will develop a rich scent and the pumpkin will soften further, blending into the fragrant water.
  7. If desired, stir in a few drops of vanilla extract for added warmth and sweetness to the scent.
  8. Turn off the heat and use a ladle or slotted spoon to remove the cinnamon stick and cloves, leaving behind a beautifully spiced, fragrant water.
  9. Enjoy the simmering potpourri as it continues to gently bubble, filling your home with cozy autumn aromas.

Notes

You can add more spices or dried herbs for personalized scent layers. Keep an eye on the water level, adding more as needed to prevent burning or drying out. This makes a lovely, natural way to scent your home for hours.