Orange and Clove Pomanders Recipe

Introduction

Orange and clove pomanders are fragrant, decorative balls that fill your home with the warm scent of citrus and spices. Traditionally associated with the holiday season, these lovely scented pomanders are perfect for freshening closets, drawers, or rooms throughout the year.

Ingredients

• 1 medium-sized orange, firm and unblemished
• Approximately 1/2 ounce whole cloves
• Sharp pointed object (ice pick or small knitting needle)
• About 1/4 cup dried spices (cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg, coriander mix)
• About 1/2 teaspoon orris root (optional, as a scent fixative)
• A piece of ribbon or yarn, large enough for a hanging loop
• Bowl for mixing spices

Instructions

1. Step 1: Use the sharp object to make a small hole in the orange’s skin. Insert the stem of a clove into the hole, pushing it down so the clove head rests on the orange surface. Test hole size to ensure cloves fit snugly without falling out.
2. Step 2: Continue making holes and inserting cloves until the entire orange surface is covered, spacing holes about 1/8 to 1/4 inch apart to allow for drying shrinkage.
3. Step 3: Mix the dried spices and orris root in a bowl. Roll the clove-covered orange in this spice mixture until fully coated.
4. Step 4: Place the orange in a dry room-temperature spot and let it dry for several weeks, turning it occasionally for even drying. To speed drying, you may use a gas oven with the pilot light on or the lowest oven setting, being careful not to cook the orange.
5. Step 5: Once dried, the orange will shrink and the cloves will appear closer together.
6. Step 6: Wrap ribbon around the orange, crossing at the bottom and tying a bow at the top. Add a hanging loop with extra ribbon or yarn, then display your fragrant pomander as desired.

Tips & Variations

• If orris root is unavailable, omit it; your pomander’s scent will fade faster but still be lovely.
• Create your own spice blend based on favorite warm spices, making each pomander uniquely scented.
• Choose different citrus fruits, such as lemons or limes, for variations in scent and appearance.

Storage

Store dried pomanders in cool, dry places like closets or drawers to enjoy their fragrance for months. If the scent fades, gently rub them to release more aroma or refresh by rolling in extra dried spices. Avoid humid areas to prevent mold growth.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

How long does it take for the pomander to dry?

Drying typically takes several weeks at room temperature, depending on humidity. Patience ensures the orange fully dries without molding.

Can I hang pomanders outdoors?

It’s best to keep pomanders indoors in dry environments. Outdoor exposure to moisture can cause spoilage or mold.

Orange and Clove Pomanders Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 97 reviews

• Author: lina
• Total Time: 3 to 4 weeks (including drying time)
• Yield: 1 orange pomander 1x

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Description

Create fragrant and decorative orange and clove pomanders, perfect for freshening drawers, closets, and rooms with a delightful citrus and spicy aroma. These lovely scented balls, commonly associated with the Christmas season, can be enjoyed year-round and make charming handmade gifts or home decor.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Ingredients

• 1 medium-sized orange, firm and unblemished
• Approximately 1/2 ounce whole cloves (bottle)
• Sharp pointed object (ice pick or small knitting needle)
• About 1/4 cup dried spices (a mix of cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg, and coriander)
• About 1/2 teaspoon orris root (optional, acts as a fixative)
• Ribbon or yarn, large enough to create a hanging loop

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Instructions

1. Prepare the holes: Carefully use the sharp pointed object to make small holes in the skin of the orange. Insert the stem of each clove into these holes so the head of the clove rests on the orange’s skin. Adjust hole size to ensure cloves fit snugly without falling out.
2. Stud the orange with cloves: Continue poking holes spaced about 1/8 to 1/4 inch apart around the entire orange surface and insert cloves into each hole until fully covered. Leaving space prevents the cloves from crowding as the orange dries and shrinks.
3. Coat with spices: In a bowl, mix the dried spices together with the orris root if using. Roll the clove-studded orange in this spice blend until evenly coated, imparting more fragrance and protection.
4. Dry the pomander: Place the orange in a dry room-temperature spot, turning it periodically for even drying. Allow several weeks to dry completely. To speed drying, use a gas oven with a pilot light on or the lowest oven setting, ensuring it stays cool enough to avoid cooking the orange.
5. Check shrunk orange: When fully dried, the orange will shrink and the cloves will pack tightly together on its surface.
6. Add ribbon for hanging: Wrap a ribbon around the dried orange starting at the top, crossing underneath, and tying a bow at the top. Use another small piece of ribbon or yarn to make a loop for hanging your pomander in closets or rooms.

Notes

• Orris root is optional but helps the scent last longer.
• Spacing cloves properly is key to accommodate shrinking during drying.
• Drying time varies but typically takes several weeks; use oven only to lightly warm air for faster drying.
• These pomanders make lovely gifts or seasonal decorations.
• Keep pomanders away from excessive moisture to avoid mold.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: No cooking required; drying takes 3 to 4 weeks
• Category: Homemade Fragrant Decor
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Decorative Craft

Keywords: pomander, orange and clove, homemade air freshener, scented orange ball, natural fragrance, holiday decor, citrus spice decoration