Ingredients

Apple Cider-Pie Vibes: 1 handful dried apple slices (4-8 slices), 3-4 whole cinnamon sticks, 3-4 whole star anise, 1-2 whole vanilla beans, 1/2 tsp whole cloves, optional dried or crystalized ginger

Warm Citrus Cranberry: 1 handful dried orange slices (and/or grapefruit or lemon), 1/4 cup dried cranberries, 2-3 whole cinnamon sticks, 2-3 whole star anise, 1 Tbsp grated dried ginger (or 6-8 crystallized ginger pieces), 1/2 tsp whole cloves

Earthy Christmas Spice: a few sprigs of pine, cedar, and/or rosemary (or a few dried tablespoons), several slices of dried pear, lemon, and/or orange, 2-3 whole bay leaves, 2-3 whole cinnamon sticks, 1 tsp whole allspice or cloves, a few drops pine or Douglas fir essential oil, splash of vanilla extract (added at use)

Chocolate Peppermint Patty: a few dried orange or apple slices, 1/4 cup dry cocoa nibs, 3-4 whole mini candy canes, 2-3 whole cinnamon sticks, 1-2 whole vanilla beans, 1-2 whole nutmeg (or 1 tsp ground), optional peppermint essential oil and/or 2 tbsp dried mint leaves

Calm and Cozy Delight: a handful of dried pear and/or lemon slices, 3 Tbsp dried lavender buds, 2 Tbsp dried chamomile flowers, 1 Tbsp dried grated ginger (or 6-8 crystallized ginger pieces), 1-2 whole vanilla beans

Instructions

Step 1: Add the selected stovetop potpourri ingredients to a mason jar of your choice.

Step 2: Adorn the jar with a printable label and instructions, securing it with twine, string, or ribbon.

Step 3: Add optional embellishments to the outside of the jar such as cinnamon sticks, sprigs of rosemary or pine, or dried orange slices tied with twine.

Step 4: To use, pour the jar’s contents into a pot filled about halfway with water.

Step 5: Add any optional fresh ingredients like 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, fresh herbs, or cut oranges or apples.

Step 6: Simmer on low heat without a lid, keeping a close watch to prevent the water from evaporating completely.

Step 7: Add more water as needed to keep the potpourri going. You can reuse the same potpourri mixture over several days by replenishing the water.

Tips & Variations

For a stronger, longer-lasting scent, include a few drops of complementary essential oils like peppermint, pine, or vanilla at the time of use.

Fresh cut apples added to the Apple Cider-Pie Vibes blend enhance the aroma when simmered.

If you skip candy canes in the Chocolate Peppermint Patty blend, add peppermint essential oil or dry mint leaves for a minty aroma.

Use recycled mason jars and create personalized labels for charming, eco-friendly gifts.

Experiment by mixing and matching dried fruits and spices to create your own signature holiday scent.

Storage

Store your prepared stovetop potpourri jars in a cool, dry place until ready to use or gift. They will keep their fragrance for several months when sealed properly. When using, simmer gently and add fresh water as needed. Leftover potpourri mixture can be reused for several days by replenishing water and reheating on low.

FAQs

Can I use fresh ingredients instead of dried?

Fresh ingredients tend to break down quickly and may not last as long. Dried fruits and spices provide a longer-lasting, more concentrated fragrance ideal for these potpourri blends. You can add small amounts of fresh items like cut apples or herbs at the time of simmering for enhanced aroma.

How long can I simmer the potpourri safely?

Simmer on low heat and keep a close eye to ensure the water does not evaporate completely, typically up to several hours. Always replenish the water to prevent burning the ingredients. For safety, avoid leaving it unattended and turn off the heat when not in use.