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Festive Fall Simmering Apple Potpourri

This simmering apple potpourri combines fragrant apple slices, cinnamon sticks, and orange zest simmered in water to create a warm, aromatic scent that fills the home with fall-inspired notes. The ingredients are gently heated on the stove, releasing their natural fragrances and producing a cozy, visually appealing simmering mixture that lasts for hours.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 1
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Seasonal
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups fresh apple slices preferably unpeeled, cored and sliced
  • 2 sticks cinnamon sticks whole, to release warm spice aroma
  • 1 orange orange zest freshly grated
  • 4 cups water enough to cover ingredients and allow for simmering

Equipment

  • Small saucier or saucepan
  • Ladle or slotted spoon

Method
 

  1. Combine water, apple slices, cinnamon sticks, and orange zest in a small saucepan.
  2. Place the saucepan over low to medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  3. Allow the mixture to simmer slowly, watching as the water starts to steam and fragrant aromas fill the air, usually after 5–10 minutes.
  4. Occasionally stir gently with a ladle to help release more scent and prevent ingredients from sticking or burning.
  5. As the water level decreases slightly, add more water if needed to maintain a steady simmer and keep the fragrances going.
  6. Once the aromatic glow and warm scent flood your space, turn off the heat and remove the cinnamon sticks.
  7. Transfer the fragrant mixture to a heat-safe bowl or simply enjoy it straight from the saucepan, allowing the scents to linger as the water gently cools.

Notes

Replenish water as needed to prolong scent, and add more orange zest or a few drops of essential oil for extra fragrance. Keep an eye on the heat to prevent burning or boiling dry.