Want to make your home smell amazing? Even better than lighting multiple candles? Stovetop Potpourri is the answer! Let some fruit and spices simmer in water and the smell will fill your home. Perfect for the holidays, a party, or even if you're showing your house!

What You'll Need:
- Orange
- Apple
- Cinnamon Sticks
- Whole Cloves
Check out this quick video!
Tips and FAQs!
What else can I add?
Have fun experimenting with different combinations! Some other things I like to use are:
- Other fruits - pears, cranberries, lemon
- Chunk of fresh ginger
- Small splash of vanilla extract

How long can I leave it simmering on the stove?
Hours! You'll notice the smell just minutes after the simmering starts and the aroma will spread over time.
But you can leave the pot on the stove for hours (attended of course, for safety). Just keep adding water as needed!
Can I reuse the potpourri another day?
I wouldn't. You could remove the cinnamon sticks and reuse but I would use fresh fruit.
You'll notice that the apples and oranges become very soft and cooked after simmering for so long.
Can I use fruit that's a little past due/imperfect?
Absolutely! This is a great no food waste option. As long as the fruit isn't rotten (that wouldn't smell good..), it's fine to use!
It's a great option for bruised or dry fruits that you may have trouble getting your family to eat.
Can I use my Slow Cooker?
Totally! You can put this covered in a slow cooker on high for hours. The lid helps prevent evaporation so you shouldn't need to add more water.
If you leave the lid off, you may need to add more water occasionally. Set it and forget it! This is a great option for a holiday party.

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Stovetop Potpourri
Want to make your home smell amazing? Stovetop Potpourri is the answer! Let some fruit and spices simmer in water and the smell will fill your home. Perfect for the holidays, a party, or even if you're showing your house! You can even use your slow cooker.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 1 pot
- Category: Potpourri
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 orange, quartered
- 1 apple, quartered
- 2-3 cinnamon sticks
- 1 tablespoon whole cloves
Instructions
- Prepare fruit. Quarter the orange and apple. No peeling necessary.
- Add Ingredients to Pot. Add ingredients to a pot of water (pot no smaller than 2 quarts). You want at least 2 inches of room at the top so it doesn't simmer over.
- Bring to a Simmer. Heat pot over medium heat until water comes to a simmer, lower heat to maintain a simmer. Do not boil, just a gentle simmer. It can simmer for hours, if desired. Just add water as it evaporates. Enjoy the aroma!
Notes
Slow Cooker: You can also use your slow cooker. Add water ingredients to your crock pot, put the lid on, and turn to High. It can be left on High for hours. The lid will help keep the water from evaporating.
Keywords: Stovetop Potpourri, Fall Potpourri, Fall Stovetop Potpourri, Holiday Potpourri
Katie says
This made my house smell so good!
★★★★★