The Best Stovetop Potpourri Recipe to Try This Winter
Quick and easy stovetop potpourri recipe that will leave your home smelling just like Christmas.

One thing I remember the most about my childhood is how good our house always smelled. Still to this day when you walk in my parent’s home, you’ll be greeted with such pleasant aromas whether it’s from a candle or something cooking in the kitchen. My mom wasn’t much of a baker, but I loved how warm and cozy she made our home feel through a variety of scents. It was so inviting and relaxing.
I was instantly reminded of my childhood with this winter stovetop potpourri recipe. I’m sure you’ve heard of stovetop potpourri before. Combining a blend of citrus and warm spices with water, you let it simmer on the stove for a few hours. Not only does it create a cozy and welcoming vibe, you can make your home smell and feel like Christmas throughout this holiday season and all winter long.

3 Reasons Why This Winter Stovetop Potpourri Recipe is the Best
Does stovetop potpourri actually work? Yes. Yes it does. Not only does it work, but there are so many reasons why stovetop potpourri is amazing.
- Your home instantly smells like Christmas. The combination of a variety of citrus and warm spices makes the house smell like the holiday season, winter, and dessert. You know all the best things.
- It’s a great way to use up produce that may be going bad. If you have any citrus that’s going bad, slice it up and throw it in a pot of water with some spices to leave your home smelling oh so delicious.
- It’s so simple and easy to make. You literally throw a combination of ingredients in a pot and let the stove do the rest.

What You’ll Need for this Stovetop Potpourri Recipe
The best part of making stovetop potpourri is that it’s completely customizable. Definitely use up any ingredients you currently have on hand before you run to the grocery store. Use any combination based on the smell that’s most delicious to you.
Ingredients:
- Fresh cranberries
- Sliced oranges, lemons or grapefruit
- Water
- Cinnamon sticks
- Bay leaves or rosemary
- Nutmeg
- Vanilla extract (optional)
- Star anise (optional)

How to make this stovetop potpourri recipe
I love to make stovetop potpourri when I know that I’m going to be home for awhile so that I can let the pot simmer all day long.
- Slice your citrus. I like to slice my citrus a little thin. Not only does it look pretty, but it also helps bring out the smell more.
- Combine all your ingredients in a pot. Once you decide which ingredients you plan to use, add them to a pot of water. Be sure to check the pot often in case you need to add any additional water so that it doesn’t burn.
- Simmer over low heat. You want the pot to simmer on low, not come to a boil.
- Let the aroma feel your home for as long as you want. But don’t forget to check the water level often.
Tips about Stovetop Potpourri
- Can be reused for up to 3 days
- It may last up to a week if your refrigerate
- While all the ingredients are edible, I wouldn’t drink it
- You can also make it in the slow cooker
If you decide to try this recipe or come up with a combination of your own, be sure to post it and tag me on Instagram @TheTrappHaus. I’d love to see it!


