If you want to fill your home with cozy, festive aromas that instantly put you in the holiday spirit, you’ll absolutely adore this Christmas Simmer Pot in a Jar Recipe. It’s simple, customizable, and makes the perfect gift or centerpiece. I’ve been making this every winter for years, and each time I do, my family literally stops what they’re doing just to inhale the warm, spicy scents drifting through the kitchen. Trust me, you’re going to want to read on so you can nail this festive favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortlessly Festive: Just layer your ingredients in a jar and you’ve got an instant holiday atmosphere without any hassle.
- Customizable Scent Profile: Add or swap spices and herbs to create your own signature holiday smell.
- Perfect Gift Idea: Beautiful in a clear jar, it’s a thoughtful, handmade present for friends, neighbors, or coworkers.
- Long-Lasting Aroma: You can simmer multiple times by adding fresh water, keeping your home smelling amazing all season.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Christmas Simmer Pot in a Jar Recipe is really in the harmony of earthy spices, zesty citrus, and aromatic evergreens. Each ingredient brings something special, so be sure to pick good-quality spices and fresh or dried herbs to make your jar look and smell incredible.
- Dried orange slices or orange peels: They add just the right hint of citrus brightness and look beautiful layered in the jar.
- Cinnamon sticks: A classic holiday spice that fills the air with sweetness and warmth.
- Whole cloves: These little powerhouses bring depth and a slightly spicy note to the simmer pot.
- Allspice: Adds a rich, rounded flavor that complements the cinnamon and cloves perfectly.
- Fresh or dried rosemary or evergreen branches: The green sprigs give a fresh, pine-like aroma that really evokes Christmas trees.
- Whole star anise pods: I love these for their unique licorice scent and pretty star shape.
- Cranberries or goji berries: These add a pop of festive color inside the jar and a subtle fruity nuance when simmering.
- Optional spices like cardamom pods or pumpkin pie spice: These let you personalize the aroma to your liking—spicy, sweet, or both!
Variations
One of the things I adore about this Christmas Simmer Pot in a Jar Recipe is how easy it is to make your own. Play around with what you have on hand or what suits your festive mood that year. I promise, experimenting here is half the fun!
- Add apple slices: I like tossing in dried apple slices for a sweeter, fall-inspired aroma that transitions well into the holidays.
- Swap rosemary for fir or cedar: Using evergreen clippings from your yard makes this pot smell like a fresh Christmas tree—no store-bought pine needed.
- Use pumpkin pie spice: For those who love the classic dessert scents, a little pumpkin pie spice transforms the simmer pot into a cozy bake-shop dream.
- Make it citrus-forward: Add lemon or lime peels for a zesty punch that brightens up the deeper spices.
How to Make Christmas Simmer Pot in a Jar Recipe
Step 1: Layer Your Ingredients Thoughtfully
Start by placing the larger ingredients like dried orange slices and cinnamon sticks at the bottom of your jar or pot. I’ve found this creates a beautiful base and supports the smaller items on top so everything stays pretty and in place. Then sprinkle in your cloves, star anise, and berries to add texture and pops of holiday color. Finally, tuck in sprigs of rosemary or evergreen branches around the edges for that fresh, seasonal touch. You’ll want to layer carefully so your jar looks as good as it smells!
Step 2: Choose the Perfect Jar
I keep coming back to pint-sized clear glass jars with lids because they really showcase the festive layers inside. Plus, the lid helps keep everything fresh until your recipient is ready to simmer. You can find these jars at craft stores or online, and they’re perfect for gifting. If you plan to use the simmer pot right away, a slow cooker or large stockpot works beautifully—just transfer the jar’s contents and cover with water.
Step 3: Add a Sweet Label with Instructions
I like to tie a handwritten gift tag or printed label on my jars that says: “Pour contents into a large pot or slow cooker. Cover with water and simmer on low heat. Check water every hour and add more as needed to prevent burning. Enjoy the cozy holiday aromas!” This not only guides your friends or family but also adds a personal touch that shows you care.
Step 4: Finish with a Festive Touch
To make your Christmas Simmer Pot in a Jar Recipe truly gift-worthy, I like to tie twine or festive ribbon around the lid. Then, I add a small sprig of fresh greenery, a mini cinnamon stick, or a dried orange slice right on top for an extra special look. It’s small touches like this that make your jar stand out under the tree or on a holiday hostess table.
Pro Tips for Making Christmas Simmer Pot in a Jar Recipe
- Use dried citrus for longevity: I’ve learned that dried orange slices last much longer in the jar without molding, especially if you’re gifting early in the season.
- Slow simmer, not boil: Keeping your pot at a low simmer ensures the spices gently release their oils without evaporating your water too fast.
- Check water level often: I can’t stress this enough—running out of water risks burning the herbs and spices, which ruins the scent and can smoke up your kitchen.
- Refresh to reuse: You can reuse the simmer pot blend 2-3 times by adding fresh water each day, but I recommend tossing it after that because the aroma dulls.
How to Serve Christmas Simmer Pot in a Jar Recipe
Garnishes
While the simmer pot itself isn’t a food recipe, I love to add festive garnishes to the simmering pot or serving area to enhance the holiday vibe—things like cinnamon sticks resting nearby, fresh evergreen sprigs, or even bowls of whole cranberries. It visually ties the aroma to your décor and guests always comment on the beautiful presentation.
Side Dishes
Since this is more of an ambient home fragrance, I like pairing it with cozy activities like baking gingerbread cookies, sipping hot cider, or enjoying holiday movies. If you’re hosting, it complements dishes like spiced ham or roasted veggies by keeping the festive spirit alive throughout the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, try setting out several smaller simmer pots in clear mini jars throughout the room for an all-around festive aroma. I once crafted a “DIY Simmer Pot Station” where guests added ingredients themselves and took jars home—it was a huge hit! You can also stack jars in a pretty basket with a cozy blanket for a gift set that’s both thoughtful and functional.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once you’ve layered your jar, store it in a cool, dry place if you’re not ready to use it right away. I like to keep mine in the pantry for up to a month. If you’ve used fresh herbs or fresh cranberries, it’s best to use the simmer pot within a couple of days or refrigerate it to keep things fresh.
Freezing
I don’t usually freeze these simmer pots because the texture of dried herbs and spices can suffer, and it’s easier to just prep fresh jars each season. However, if you want to prepare in bulk and freeze, opt for making the simmer liquid in a freezer-safe container and thaw gently before reheating.
Reheating
To enjoy your simmer pot, simply pour the jar contents into a pot or slow cooker, cover with water, and simmer on low. If you have leftovers, refrigerate the mixture and reuse within the next day or two by adding more water and reheating gently. This keeps the scent alive and your home smelling festive.
FAQs
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Can I use fresh oranges instead of dried slices in the Christmas Simmer Pot in a Jar Recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh orange slices add a bright, juicy citrus scent, but keep in mind they can cause your simmer pot blend to spoil faster. If using fresh slices, it’s best to use the mixture within 1-2 days or refrigerate it to prolong freshness.
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How long can I keep a Christmas Simmer Pot in a jar before it loses its aroma?
If stored in a cool, dry place in a sealed jar, your simmer pot can stay fresh for up to a month, especially if all ingredients are dried. The scent is strongest when freshly made but can still offer a cozy aroma after weeks.
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Can I reuse the ingredients from the simmer pot multiple times?
Yes! After simmering, cool the mixture and store refrigerated. You can refresh the pot by adding fresh water and reheating 2-3 times, but after that, the aroma starts to fade and ingredients lose potency.
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Is it safe to leave the simmer pot unattended?
It’s important not to leave a simmer pot unattended on the stovetop. Water can evaporate quickly, and dry ingredients may burn, creating smoke or even a fire risk. Always keep an eye on the water level and never leave it running when you’re not in the room.
Final Thoughts
This Christmas Simmer Pot in a Jar Recipe has become my go-to way to instantly add warmth, nostalgia, and seasonal cheer to my home. It’s an easy tradition to start, a beautiful gift idea, and a delightful way to fill your space with natural holiday scents. I encourage you to try layering your jar, get creative with your mix-ins, and enjoy the cozy vibes it brings. Once you’ve made it, you’ll wonder how the holidays ever smelled so good without it!
Print
Christmas Simmer Pot in a Jar Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours
- Total Time: 5 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 quart jar
- Category: Beverages & Infusions
- Method: Simmering (Stovetop)
- Cuisine: American
Description
Create a festive and aromatic Christmas Simmer Pot in a Jar with a blend of dried orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice, star anise, cranberries, and fresh or dried rosemary or evergreen sprigs. This simmer pot recipe fills your home with a warm, natural holiday scent that can be easily prepared as a decorative gift. Simply simmer the ingredients in water on low heat for hours, adding water as needed to maintain the fragrance and ambiance.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2-3 dried orange slices or orange peels
- 2-3 cinnamon sticks
- 1 tablespoon whole cloves
- 1 tablespoon allspice
- 1-2 whole star anise pods
Herbal and Color Accents
- 1-2 sprigs fresh or dried rosemary or evergreen branches (cedar, fir, juniper, or pine)
- 1 small handful of cranberries or goji berries for color
Optional Spices
- 1 teaspoon cardamom pods or a pinch of pumpkin pie spice
Instructions
- Layer Your Ingredients: Begin by placing the larger items such as dried orange slices and cinnamon sticks at the bottom of your jar. Follow by layering in the whole cloves, star anise pods, and cranberries or goji berries to add attractive pops of color. Finally, tuck in the rosemary or evergreen sprigs to add a fresh, festive touch.
- Choose the Right Jar: Use a pint-sized or any clear glass jar with a lid. These jars showcase the beautiful layers of ingredients, making the jar visually pleasing and gift-ready.
- Add a Label or Tag: Attach a gift tag or label with simmering instructions. Advise to pour the contents into a large pot, stock pot, or slow cooker, add enough water to cover the ingredients, and simmer on low heat. Remind to watch the water level and add fresh water to keep the aroma alive.
- Simmer and Enjoy: Transfer the jar’s contents into a simmering vessel such as a large pot or slow cooker, add water to cover everything, and gently simmer on low heat for up to 5 hours. Keep an eye on the water and replenish as needed to avoid burning the ingredients and to maintain a cozy scent.
- Finish with Decorative Touches: Tie twine or ribbon around the jar’s lid. Add a sprig of greenery, a small cinnamon stick, or a dried orange slice to complete the festive presentation for gifting or displaying.
Notes
- Always maintain sufficient water in the pot when simmering to prevent the ingredients from burning; check water levels regularly and add fresh water as needed.
- Dried citrus and herbs last longer, but fresh alternatives like orange slices or rosemary are possible; use fresh blends within 1-2 days at room temperature or up to one week refrigerated.
- Feel free to customize by substituting with lemon peels, apple slices, bay leaves, or sprinkle in pumpkin pie spice or a splash of vanilla extract for a dessert-like aroma.
- Use fresh cranberries refrigerated and consumed within a week; dried cranberries extend shelf life for long-lasting jars.
- Simmering can be done in various vessels including a large pot, Dutch oven, small saucepan, or slow cooker; a small crock pot on low setting offers hands-free simmering.
- Store and reuse the cooled simmer mixture up to 2-3 times with fresh water added each time; scent fades after repeated uses.
- Do not leave the simmer pot unattended on the stovetop to avoid water evaporation and burning.
- Seasonal variations include fall blends with apple slices and pumpkin pie spice or winter blends with evergreen sprigs.
- Use leftover citrus peels like orange or lemon to reduce waste and add fragrance.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 quart jar (non-edible aromatic mixture)
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
