28 Amazing Simmering Pot Recipes So Your House Smells Good (Christmas + Every Season of the Year)

I’m obsessed with my house smelling amazing, especially when guests come over.

If you’re always on the hunt for how to make your house smell good without spending a ton on candles or sprays, simmering pot recipes are where it’s at.

Just grab a few simple ingredients from your kitchen, toss them in some water on the stove, and let the magic happen.

It’s cozy, effortless, and makes your space smell like a total vibe.

This isn’t about stocking up on overpriced scented things that never last.

It’s about creating a natural vibe that feels fresh, cozy, or whatever mood you’re going for.

And let me just say, there’s something so satisfying about walking into a space that smells amazing and knowing you didn’t have to try too hard to make it happen.

Let’s see how you can totally transform the energy in your home with some simmering potpourri recipes.

Christmas Stovetop Potpourri Recipes

You know that magical, cozy vibe Christmas brings?

The kind where your house smells like you’ve been baking all day, even if you haven’t?

That’s exactly what Christmas stovetop potpourri is for.

It’s the easiest way to make your space feel like the holidays and with pure festive goodness simmering away.

All you need is a pot, a few ingredients, and a little water to turn your home into a total winter wonderland.

1. Festive Cranberry Spice Blend

What You Need:

  • Fresh Cranberries – For that festive pop of color and a subtle, bright aroma.
  • Orange – Sliced fresh oranges to blend sweet citrus with warm spices.
  • Cinnamon Sticks – The ultimate holiday aroma that fills your space instantly.
  • Whole Cloves – Adds a spicy warmth that feels cozy and traditional.
  • Fresh Rosemary Sprig – Gives a touch of pine for that “just chopped the Christmas tree” vibe.
  • Star Anise (optional) – Beautiful for presentation and a hint of sweet licorice spice.

Supplies:

  • Dutch Oven, Saucepan, or Crockpot – Your choice of pot to simmer this festive mix.
  • Water – Enough to fill your pot halfway, about 4–8 cups.

How to Make It:

  1. Prep Your Ingredients – Slice the orange into rounds and grab all your spices and cranberries. No need to overthink it—this recipe is as relaxed as your holiday should be.
  2. Assemble in the Pot – Add everything into your pot, cranberries, orange slices, rosemary, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise (if using). Fill it with water, leaving some room at the top.
  3. Heat Gently – Place the pot over low heat and let the magic begin.
  4. Simmer Away – Keep the pot on a low simmer. Your house will smell amazing for hours. Just top off with water as it evaporates to keep the aroma going strong.

This mix brings the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and fresh holiday scents. Plus, it looks so festive that you might not want to take it off the stove—even if it’s just for show.

2. Apple Spice Christmas Potpourri

Sliced Red Apples – Adds a cozy, fruity aroma that fills the air with warmth.

Cinnamon Sticks – The ultimate holiday spice that creates an inviting scent.

Whole Cloves – Brings a touch of spicy, festive warmth.

Fresh Pine Sprig – For that classic Christmas tree scent.

Vanilla Extract – Adds a sweet, comforting note to the mix.

Supplies:

  • Dutch Oven, Saucepan, or Crockpot – Any pot will work for simmering.
  • Water – Enough to fill your pot halfway, about 4–8 cups.

How to Make It:

  1. Prep Your Ingredients – Slice the apples into rounds and gather all your spices.
  2. Assemble in the Pot – Add apples, cinnamon sticks, cloves, pine sprig, and a splash of vanilla extract to the pot. Fill with water, leaving some room at the top.
  3. Heat Gently – Set the pot over low heat to start releasing the aromas.
  4. Simmer Away – Keep it simmering and refill with water as needed.

This blend creates a cozy, warm atmosphere that smells like a classic holiday evening by the fire.

3. Citrus Mint Holiday Potpourri Recipe

What You Need:

  • Sliced Lemons – A bright, fresh citrus scent that’s uplifting and clean.
  • Sliced Limes – Adds a zesty twist for a refreshing aroma.
  • Fresh Mint Leaves – Provides a crisp, invigorating fragrance.
  • Sprigs of Rosemary – Gives a subtle piney note for a holiday feel.

Supplies:

  • Dutch Oven, Saucepan, or Crockpot – Choose your favorite pot to simmer this mix.
  • Water – Enough to fill your pot halfway, about 4–8 cups.

How to Make It:

  1. Prep Your Ingredients – Slice the lemons and limes, and pick fresh mint leaves.
  2. Assemble in the Pot – Add citrus slices, mint, and rosemary to your pot. Fill with water, leaving some room at the top.
  3. Heat Gently – Place on low heat and let the scents meld together.
  4. Simmer Away – Top off with water as needed to keep your home smelling fresh and festive.

This mix is perfect for creating a crisp, clean holiday vibe that feels light and refreshing.

4. Warm Vanilla & Ginger Potpourri Recipe

What You Need:

  • Vanilla Bean Pods – A warm, sweet aroma that feels like a holiday hug.
  • Fresh Ginger Slices – Adds a slightly spicy and fresh scent.
  • Cinnamon Sticks – Complements the sweetness with a cozy spice.
  • Nutmeg – For a hint of holiday baking magic.
  • Cranberries – A festive touch of color and subtle fruitiness.

Supplies:

  • Dutch Oven, Saucepan, or Crockpot – Use what you have.
  • Water – Enough to fill your pot halfway, about 4–8 cups.

How to Make It:

  1. Prep Your Ingredients – Slice ginger and gather your spices and cranberries.
  2. Assemble in the Pot – Add vanilla, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cranberries to the pot. Fill with water.
  3. Heat Gently – Place over low heat and let the comforting aroma fill your home.
  4. Simmer Away – Keep the pot simmering and refill water as needed.

This blend smells like freshly baked holiday cookies without turning on the oven.

5. Evergreen Forest

What You Need:

  • Fresh Pine Branches – For that just-cut Christmas tree smell.
  • Cedarwood Chips – Adds a woody, earthy fragrance.
  • Bay Leaves – Brings a subtle, herbal scent.
  • Juniper Berries – A festive, wintry aroma that feels outdoorsy.

Supplies:

  • Dutch Oven, Saucepan, or Crockpot – Perfect for long, slow simmering.
  • Water – Enough to fill your pot halfway, about 4–8 cups.

How to Make It:

  1. Prep Your Ingredients – Break the pine branches into smaller pieces to release the scent.
  2. Assemble in the Pot – Add pine, cedarwood, bay leaves, and juniper berries. Fill with water.
  3. Heat Gently – Place on the stove over low heat and let the forest-inspired scent bloom.
  4. Simmer Away – Refill with water as needed to keep the fragrance strong.

This mix creates a fresh, woodsy atmosphere perfect for a cabin-inspired Christmas vibe.

6. Cranberry Spice Medley

What You Need:

  • Fresh Cranberries – Adds a festive color and a mild, fruity aroma.
  • Sliced Apples – Provides a warm, fruity scent that pairs beautifully with spices.
  • Cinnamon Sticks – The star of the show for a cozy, holiday feel.
  • Whole Cloves – Enhances the potpourri with a deep, spicy warmth.
  • Fresh Rosemary Sprigs – Offers a subtle piney fragrance for that Christmas tree vibe.
  • Star Anise (optional) – A pretty addition with a sweet, spiced aroma.

Supplies:

  • Dutch Oven, Saucepan, or Crockpot – Any of these work well for simmering.
  • Water – Enough to fill your pot halfway, about 4–8 cups.

How to Make It:

  1. Prep Your Ingredients – Slice the apples and gather the cranberries, spices, and rosemary.
  2. Assemble in the Pot – Add cranberries, apple slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, rosemary, and star anise (if using). Fill with water, leaving some space at the top.
  3. Heat Gently – Place the pot over low heat and let the festive scents release slowly.
  4. Simmer Away – Keep it on a low simmer, adding water as needed to keep the aroma alive.

This mix combines the fruity sweetness of cranberries and apples with the warmth of spices, creating a comforting and festive scent for your home.nd.

7. Spiced Cranberry Pear

What You Need:

  • Sliced Pears – A sweet, fruity aroma that pairs beautifully with spices.
  • Fresh Cranberries – For a festive look and subtle tartness.
  • Cinnamon Sticks – Brings warm, spicy notes to the mix.
  • Whole Allspice – Adds a cozy, spiced scent perfect for the holidays.

Supplies:

  • Dutch Oven, Saucepan, or Crockpot – Simmer in your favorite pot.
  • Water – Enough to fill your pot halfway, about 4–8 cups.

How to Make It:

  1. Prep Your Ingredients – Slice pears and gather spices and cranberries.
  2. Assemble in the Pot – Add pears, cranberries, cinnamon, and allspice to the pot. Fill with water.
  3. Heat Gently – Place the pot on the stove over low heat to release the aromas.
  4. Simmer Away – Keep simmering and refill water as needed.

This blend is fruity, spicy, and festive—a perfect addition to your holiday home.

Spring Simmering Potpourri Recipes

Spring is all about fresh starts, and what better way to bring that energy into your home than with a light, refreshing scent?

Spring simmering potpourri recipes are the easiest way to fill your space with breezy, floral, and citrusy vibes that feel like the season itself.

With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a cozy, welcoming atmosphere that’s perfect for those sunny spring days. Let’s get into it!

8. Cucumber Rosemary Potpourri Recipe

What You Need:

  • Cucumber Slices – Provides a light, clean, and fresh aroma.
  • Fresh Rosemary Sprigs – Adds a subtle herbal note.
  • Lime Slices – Brightens the scent with a tangy, citrusy twist.

Supplies:

  • Dutch Oven, Saucepan, or Crockpot
  • Water (4–8 cups)

How to Make It:

  1. Slice the cucumber and lime into thin rounds.
  2. Add cucumber, lime, and rosemary sprigs to the pot.
  3. Fill with water and place over low heat.
  4. Let it simmer, topping off with water as needed.

This mix is like a spa day for your home, bringing a calming and clean vibe.

9. Citrus Lavender Potpourri Recipe

What You Need:

  • Orange Peels – Adds a bright and sweet citrus aroma.
  • Dried Lavender – Provides a floral, calming fragrance.
  • Lemon Slices – Boosts the citrusy freshness.

Supplies:

  • Dutch Oven, Saucepan, or Crockpot
  • Water (4–8 cups)

How to Make It:

  1. Peel the oranges and slice the lemons.
  2. Add orange peels, lemon slices, and dried lavender to your pot.
  3. Fill with water and heat gently on low.
  4. Keep it simmering, refilling water to maintain the scent.

This blend feels like a spring meadow, light and soothing and something that will make your house smell good.

10. Eucalyptus Citrus Clean

What You Need:

  • Fresh Eucalyptus Leaves – A cool, minty freshness.
  • Grapefruit Slices – Adds a tangy, zesty citrus scent.
  • Rosemary Sprigs – Complements the eucalyptus with a subtle herbal touch.

Supplies:

  • Pot or Crockpot
  • Water (4–8 cups)

How to Make It:

  1. Slice the grapefruit and prepare the eucalyptus leaves.
  2. Add eucalyptus, grapefruit slices, and rosemary sprigs to the pot.
  3. Fill with water and simmer on low heat.
  4. Refill water as needed to keep the clean, crisp scent going.

This mix is best for refreshing the air after cleaning or on a warm spring day and remove that stale air from your home.

11. Rose & Jasmine Spring Potpourri

What You Need:

  • Fresh Rose Petals – Sweet and romantic, adding a luxurious floral aroma.
  • Fresh Jasmine Flowers – Light and refreshing, with a soft, delicate fragrance.
  • Lemon Slices – A subtle citrusy note to brighten the floral blend.
  • Vanilla Extract – A warm, sweet touch to balance the flowers.

Supplies:

  • Dutch Oven, Saucepan, or Crockpot
  • Water (4–8 cups)

How to Make It:

  1. Gather fresh rose petals and jasmine flowers.
  2. Slice the lemon into thin rounds.
  3. Add rose petals, jasmine flowers, lemon slices, and a splash of vanilla extract to the pot.
  4. Fill with water, leaving a little room at the top.
  5. Heat gently over low heat and let the scent slowly fill your home.
  6. Refill water as needed to keep the soft floral aroma alive.

This mix creates a harmonious blend of sweet and fresh floral scents, perfect for bringing a peaceful, springtime feel to your home.

12. Chamomile Rose Potpourri

What You Need:

  • Chamomile Tea Bags – A light, herbal base with calming notes.
  • Fresh Rose Petals – Provides a sweet, floral scent.
  • Lime Slices – Adds a refreshing, citrusy touch.

Supplies:

  • Saucepan or Crockpot
  • Water (4–8 cups)

How to Make It:

  1. Add chamomile tea bags and rose petals to the pot.
  2. Slice the lime and toss it in.
  3. Fill with water and let it simmer gently on low.
  4. Refill water as needed to maintain the aroma.

This blend is perfect for a tranquil, refreshing spring day.

13. Rose Lemon Blossom

What You Need:

  • Fresh Rose Petals – For a sweet, floral scent that feels luxurious.
  • Lemon Slices – Adds a bright citrus freshness.
  • Vanilla Extract – Complements the roses with a warm, subtle sweetness.

Supplies:

  • Dutch Oven, Saucepan, or Crockpot
  • Water (4–8 cups)

How to Make It:

  1. Gather fresh rose petals and slice the lemons.
  2. Add rose petals, lemon slices, and a splash of vanilla extract to the pot.
  3. Fill with water and heat on low.
  4. Let it simmer, refilling water as needed to maintain the floral and citrusy aroma.

This blend brings a romantic, fresh, and elegant scent to your home.

14. Herbal Citrus Potpourri Recipe

What You Need:

  • Lemon Peels – Bright and zesty citrus notes.
  • Thyme Sprigs – A fresh, herbal aroma.
  • Basil Leaves – Adds a soft, slightly sweet herbal touch.

Supplies:

  • Saucepan, Dutch Oven, or Crockpot
  • Water (4–8 cups)

How to Make It:

  1. Peel the lemons and prepare the thyme and basil.
  2. Add lemon peels, thyme, and basil to the pot.
  3. Fill with water and heat over low.
  4. Let it simmer, adding water as necessary.

This mix is fresh and vibrant, perfect for energizing your home every single day during spring.

Summer Potpourri Recipes

Summer is my second favorite season next to fall.

It’s all about bright, refreshing scents that make your home feel as light and airy as the season itself.

Summer potpourri recipes are the perfect way to fill your space with the aromas of citrus, herbs, and fresh florals—all without using synthetic sprays or candles.

With just a few natural ingredients, you can create easy, simmering blends that bring the essence of summer indoors.

15. Tropical Pineapple Breeze Potpourri Recipe

What You Need:

  • Fresh Pineapple Chunks – Sweet and tropical, bringing a sunny vibe.
  • Coconut Water – A natural tropical base.
  • Fresh Mint Leaves – Adds a cooling, refreshing touch.
  • Lime Slices – Brightens the scent with zesty citrus notes.

Supplies:

  • Saucepan or Crockpot
  • Water (optional, to dilute coconut water if needed)

How to Make It:

  1. Add fresh pineapple chunks, lime slices, and mint leaves to the pot.
  2. Pour in coconut water, adding regular water if needed to fill halfway.
  3. Heat on low and let it simmer, refilling liquid as it evaporates.

This mix fills your home with a tropical paradise aroma, perfect for summer days.

16. Citrus Paradise Splash Potpourri Recipe

What You Need:

  • Grapefruit Slices – Adds a tangy, vibrant citrus aroma.
  • Orange Peels – Sweet and zesty, complementing the grapefruit.
  • Lemon Slices – Brightens the blend with a crisp freshness.
  • Rosemary Sprigs – Adds an herbal depth to the tropical citrus notes.

Supplies:

  • Dutch Oven or Saucepan
  • Water (4–8 cups)

How to Make It:

  1. Add grapefruit, orange peels, lemon slices, and rosemary sprigs to your pot.
  2. Fill with water and place over low heat.
  3. Let it simmer, topping off with water as needed.

This combination creates a fresh, citrusy atmosphere, perfect for energizing your space.

17. Mango Lime Delight Simmering Pot

What You Need:

  • Fresh Mango Chunks – Sweet and tropical, bringing a summer vibe.
  • Lime Slices – A tart citrus twist.
  • Vanilla Extract – Adds a creamy sweetness that balances the tropical fruits.

Supplies:

  • Saucepan or Crockpot
  • Water (4–8 cups)

How to Make It:

  1. Add mango chunks, lime slices, and a splash of vanilla extract to the pot.
  2. Fill with water and heat gently over low.
  3. Keep it simmering and refill water as necessary.

This blend creates a sweet and refreshing tropical scent perfect for a sunny summer afternoon.

18. Pineapple Mint Potpourri Recipe

What You Need:

  • Fresh Pineapple Slices – Sweet and juicy, evoking tropical vibes.
  • Fresh Mint Leaves – Adds a cooling freshness.
  • Lemon Zest – A subtle citrusy brightness.

Supplies:

  • Dutch Oven or Saucepan
  • Water (4–8 cups)

How to Make It:

  1. Add pineapple slices, mint leaves, and lemon zest to your pot.
  2. Fill with water and heat on low.
  3. Let it simmer and refill water to maintain the tropical aroma.

This mix feels like a breezy island escape in your home.

19. Coconut Citrus Potpourri Recipe

What You Need:

  • Coconut Shavings – Sweet and tropical, creating a beachy scent.
  • Lemon Slices – Brightens the mix with a tangy note.
  • Orange Peels – Adds a sweet, zesty aroma.

Supplies:

  • Saucepan or Crockpot
  • Water (4–8 cups)

How to Make It:

  1. Add coconut shavings, lemon slices, and orange peels to the pot.
  2. Fill with water and heat on low.
  3. Simmer gently, topping off with water as needed.

This blend is perfect for bringing a sunny, beachy vibe to your space.

20. Berry Citrus Summer Bliss Simmering Pot

What You Need:

  • Fresh Strawberries – Sweet and fruity, adding a summer touch.
  • Blueberries – Deepens the fruity aroma with a rich, fresh note.
  • Lemon Slices – Adds a bright, tangy citrus balance.
  • Vanilla Extract – A sweet, creamy complement to the fruits.

Supplies:

  • Dutch Oven, Saucepan, or Crockpot
  • Water (4–8 cups)

How to Make It:

  1. Add strawberries, blueberries, lemon slices, and a splash of vanilla extract to the pot.
  2. Fill with water and heat on low.
  3. Let it simmer and refill water as necessary to maintain the fruity scent.

When done, enjoy the beautiful and delicious smell to make your house smell oh-so-great!

21. Peach Basil Refresh

What You Need:

  • Fresh Peach Slices – Sweet and juicy, perfect for a summer vibe.
  • Fresh Basil Leaves – Adds a subtle herbal freshness.
  • Lemon Peels – A bright citrusy accent.

Supplies:

  • Saucepan or Crockpot
  • Water (4–8 cups)

How to Make It:

  1. Add peach slices, basil leaves, and lemon peels to your pot.
  2. Fill with water and heat on low.
  3. Simmer gently, refilling water as necessary to keep the fresh aroma alive.

This mix brings a sweet, fruity scent with a fresh herbal twist, ideal for a sunny summer day.

Sensational Fall Potpourri Recipes

Fall is here, and you know it’s time to make your space smell as cozy as your favorite oversized sweater.

Sensational fall potpourri recipes are like the ultimate autumn vibe in a pot—think spicy, fruity, and all kinds of warm.

Forget candles; this is how you make your house feel like a pumpkin spice latte come to life.

22. Vanilla Chai Cozy Blend

What You Need:

  • Vanilla Extract – Sweet and creamy, a perfect base.
  • Cinnamon Sticks – Warm and spicy, like chai tea.
  • Whole Cloves – Adds depth and warmth.
  • Black Tea Bags – For a hint of chai tea goodness.

Supplies:

  • Dutch Oven, Saucepan, or Crockpot
  • Water (4–8 cups)

How to Make It:

  1. Add vanilla extract, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and black tea bags to your pot.
  2. Fill with water and heat on low.
  3. Simmer gently, refilling water as needed to maintain the warm, chai-inspired scent.

Now, enjoy this sweet fall potpourri smell!

23. Ginger Pear Simmering Pot

What You Need:

  • Fresh Pear Slices – Sweet and fragrant for a fall twist.
  • Fresh Ginger Slices – Spicy and zesty, perfect for autumn.
  • Cinnamon Sticks – A warm, spicy addition.
  • Star Anise (optional) – For a sweet, aromatic finish.

Supplies:

  • Saucepan or Crockpot
  • Water (4–8 cups)

How to Make It:

  1. Slice the pear and ginger, then add them to the pot along with cinnamon sticks and star anise.
  2. Fill with water and heat on low.
  3. Let it simmer, adding water as needed to keep the blend going.

This sounds delightful! I can’t wait to try this potpourri recipe!

24. Woodsy Cedar & Spice

What You Need:

  • Fresh Cedar Branches – Earthy and woodsy, like a walk in the woods.
  • Whole Cloves – Spicy and warm.
  • Bay Leaves – Adds a soft herbal note.
  • Cinnamon Sticks – Completes the mix with cozy warmth.

Supplies:

  • Dutch Oven or Saucepan
  • Water (4–8 cups)

How to Make It:

  1. Add cedar branches, cloves, bay leaves, and cinnamon sticks to your pot.
  2. Fill with water and heat gently on low.
  3. Refill water as needed to keep the woodsy, spicy aroma alive.

What a robust and wonderful smell for your house!

25. Autumn Harvest

What You Need:

  • Sliced Pears – Sweet and juicy, perfect for a fall vibe.
  • Cinnamon Sticks – Adds warmth and spice.
  • Fresh Rosemary – A subtle herbal note that complements the sweetness.
  • Orange Peels – Bright and citrusy for balance.

Supplies:

  • Saucepan or Crockpot
  • Water (4–8 cups)

How to Make It:

  1. Slice the pears and add them to the pot along with cinnamon sticks, rosemary, and orange peels.
  2. Fill with water and simmer on low heat.
  3. Keep it simmering and refill water as necessary to maintain the scent.

Get into the fall spirit quickly with this potpourri recipe!

26. Maple Warmth

What You Need:

  • Maple Syrup – Sweet and rich, with an unmistakable fall vibe.
  • Vanilla Extract – Balances the maple with a creamy aroma.
  • Cinnamon Sticks – Adds a spicy, cozy note.
  • Nutmeg – For a warm, earthy touch.

Supplies:

  • Saucepan or Crockpot
  • Water (4–8 cups)

How to Make It:

  1. Add maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon sticks, and a sprinkle of nutmeg to your pot.
  2. Fill with water and let it simmer gently on low.
  3. Refill water as needed to keep the rich, warm scent flowing.

Delicious! Try this recipe out!

27. Cranberry Orange Spice

What You Need:

  • Fresh Cranberries – Adds a tart, fruity aroma and a pop of color.
  • Orange Slices – Sweet and zesty, perfect for fall.
  • Cinnamon Sticks – Adds that warm, spicy touch.
  • Star Anise (optional) – For a sweet, licorice-like note.

Supplies:

  • Dutch Oven or Saucepan
  • Water (4–8 cups)

How to Make It:

  1. Add cranberries, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, and star anise to the pot.
  2. Fill with water and heat gently over low.
  3. Simmer away, topping off with water as needed.

Easy and simple potpourri recipe to try!

28. Pumpkin Spice

What You Need:

  • Cinnamon Sticks – The ultimate cozy fall spice.
  • Whole Cloves – Adds a spicy warmth to the mix.
  • Nutmeg – Brings a sweet, earthy note.
  • Pumpkin Pie Spice – For that classic fall vibe.
  • Vanilla Extract – A creamy, sweet touch.

Supplies:

  • Dutch Oven, Saucepan, or Crockpot
  • Water (4–8 cups)

How to Make It:

  1. Add cinnamon sticks, cloves, nutmeg, pumpkin pie spice, and a splash of vanilla extract to your pot.
  2. Fill with water and simmer on low heat.
  3. Refill water as needed to keep your home smelling like a pumpkin spice dream.

If you want your home smelling like you’ve been backing all day, try this potpourri recipe out!

How to Make Your House Smell Good

There ya go!

Amazing potpourri recipes for your stovetop to make so your house smells good!

Enjoy the scents and for more home decor and cleaning tips, follow me on Pinterest!

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