As we soldier on through the bleak midwinter, let’s enjoy a cozy winter simmer pot bursting with pops of fresh cranberry, vibrant orange peel, and fragrant pine. 

Now that Christmas is over, winter seems to drag on for ages. Many of us have stored away our garland and Christmas lights in exchange for clean floors and dusted shelves. While I certainly love a clean, fresh home as much as the next person, I miss the coziness of the holidays as well. I’m sure you have seen quite a variation of simmer pots during your time on the internet, no matter how brief that may be. Today I will be sharing with you our go-to “recipe” for the winter months. I usually begin simmering this on our stove in November until about the beginning of March. Here in the PNW March is still quite dreary and rainy, but warm days begin popping up and I catch the spring cleaning bug. Once warmer weather rolls around we’ll talk spring scents!

Winter Simmer pot recipe 

6 cups of water

2 cinnamon sticks

2 Star Anise (whole)

3 drops of clove essential oil 

2 sprigs of pine

1 cup cranberries (Fresh or Frozen)

1 orange peel or 2 tangerine peels 

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Combine all ingredients in a medium saucepan. Simmer on low heat. Enjoy the scent that fills your home. Make sure to check on the pot occasionally and add water as needed. Also, please don’t leave it on the stove completely unattended or while you are out of the house! 

Notes

I love a sprig of fresh rosemary added to this as well. If I don’t have any on hand I will occasionally add 2 drops of rosemary oil. 

This scent wafting through your home will cheer you up in no time. Once the comfort of Christmas cookies baking has passed, simmer pots keep our home smelling cozy and fresh. 

Let me know how it goes for you in the comments below if you give this simmering recipe a try. If you have any questions I would love to answer them!

What is your favorite way to combat the dreariness of winter? I could always use some more ideas!

Happy Simmering!