If you’re looking to fill your home with the magical scents of the holidays, I’ve got just the thing for you: this Christmas Simmer Pot in a Jar Recipe. It’s simple, beautiful, and creates a warm, cozy atmosphere that instantly makes you feel festive. I absolutely love how inviting this recipe makes my space feel, and trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make these jars for yourself and as gifts for friends and family. Let me walk you through everything you need to know to make your own simmer pot jar that smells like Christmas in a bottle!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortlessly Festive: It only takes a few minutes to prepare, but fills your home with hours of holiday cheer.
- Beautiful & Giftable: Layering natural ingredients in a clear jar makes for a lovely decoration and thoughtful handmade gift.
- Customizable & Fresh: You can adjust spices and herbs based on what you love or have on hand for a personalized scent.
- Eco-Friendly Aroma: It’s a wonderful way to use up leftover peels and scraps from your holiday baking and cooking.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The charm of this Christmas Simmer Pot in a Jar Recipe lies in its fresh, natural ingredients that blend beautifully to fill your home with holiday warmth. Keeping quality, fresh spices and aromatic herbs on hand makes all the difference, so I always pick the best dried orange slices and cinnamon sticks I can find.
- Dried orange slices or orange peels: These provide a bright, zesty aroma that complements the spices perfectly.
- Cinnamon sticks: A classic holiday scent that warms the whole room with just one stick.
- Whole cloves: Tiny but mighty, they add a deep and spicy note that’s unmistakably Christmas.
- Allspice: Brings a gentle peppery sweetness to the mix.
- Fresh or dried rosemary or evergreen branches: I love using cedar or fir sprigs for that authentic pine-y forest vibe.
- Whole star anise pods: These give a subtle licorice-like fragrance and look so pretty layered in the jar.
- Cranberries or goji berries: Besides their festive splash of color, they add a slight tartness to balance the spices.
- Optional: cardamom pods or pumpkin pie spice: Use these for a warm twist or that cozy, dessert-like aroma.
Variations
One thing I love about this Christmas Simmer Pot in a Jar Recipe is how easy it is to make your own. Everyone’s taste buds are different, so I encourage you to play around with the ingredients until you discover your favorite combo.
- Herbal Twist: I once swapped rosemary for fresh bay leaves and loved the unexpected earthy undertone it created.
- Fruit Swap: Instead of orange, try dried apple slices mixed with a pinch of pumpkin pie spice to lean into autumn scents.
- Spicy Heat: Adding a few peppercorns brings a subtle warmth that balances the sweetness beautifully.
- Sweet & Cozy: Splash in some vanilla extract or toss in a couple of star anise pods for that festive flair I adore.
How to Make Christmas Simmer Pot in a Jar Recipe
Step 1: Layer Your Ingredients Thoughtfully
I start by placing the larger, eye-catching items like dried orange slices and cinnamon sticks in the bottom of the jar. This not only looks stunning but sets a beautiful stage for layering. Next, I add allspice, cloves, star anise pods, and cranberries—these smaller ingredients nestle nicely in between and add color and texture. Lastly, I tuck in sprigs of rosemary or evergreen branches to give that glorious pine-scented finish. This layering technique really makes the jar look like a festive treasure chest, and you’ll love showing it off on your mantle or kitchen counter.
Step 2: Choosing the Perfect Jar
I’ve tried everything from wide-mouth mason jars to tall pint-sized glass containers, and here’s what I learned: clear, sturdy glass jars with lids work best. They keep the ingredients fresh and sealed up until you’re ready to simmer. Plus, when you gift these jars, the clear glass showcases the lovely layers inside—that’s half the charm!
Step 3: Add a Label with Warm Instructions
One small thing I started doing that made a big difference: attaching a little gift tag with simmer pot instructions. It’s so helpful for friends and family who might not be familiar with how to use simmer pots. I tell them to pour the jar contents into a large pot, cover with water, simmer on low, and watch the magic unfold—it’s the easiest way to enjoy that cozy aroma.
Step 4: Finish with a Pretty Decorative Touch
To make your jar look super festive, tie a rustic twine or ribbon around the lid. I love slipping in a tiny cinnamon stick, a fresh sprig of pine, or even a dried orange slice attached to the twine—it instantly elevates the look and feels like you put in a little extra love without much extra work.
Pro Tips for Making Christmas Simmer Pot in a Jar Recipe
- Use Dried Citrus for Longevity: Fresh orange slices smell amazing, but dried ones last so much longer in the jar without molding.
- Monitor Your Simmering Water Level: I learned the hard way—never let the water evaporate completely or the ingredients will scorch and smell burnt!
- Reuse Your Simmer Pot Liquid: After the simmer is done and cooled, I store it in the fridge and add water to get a couple more uses out of it.
- Add Fresh Ingredients Last Minute: If you want that extra pine-fresh scent, add evergreen sprigs right before simmering to keep the aroma vibrant longer.
How to Serve Christmas Simmer Pot in a Jar Recipe
Garnishes
I don’t usually garnish the simmer pot itself since it’s all about the scent, but when using the jar as a decorative piece, adding a small cinnamon stick or a fresh evergreen sprig on top adds a fresh touch. If you offer the simmer pot as a gift, a tiny dried orange slice tied on the outside is a classic finishing touch that never fails to impress.
Side Dishes
Since this recipe is for creating a festive aroma, it pairs perfectly with cozy holiday snacks like spiced cookies, gingerbread, or a hot cup of mulled cider while you’re cooking or relaxing at home. I love lighting a simmer pot whenever I have guests over to instantly put everyone in the holiday spirit.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more luxe presentation, I use clear jars and layer the ingredients in a color gradient—from bright oranges at the bottom to deep reds and greens on top. I also like to include a little printed card with the story behind the recipe or a holiday wish. It turns these jars from simple simmer pots into meaningful holiday gifts that get a lot of compliments!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’ve made a large batch to simmer over several days, store the unused jarred ingredients in a cool, dry place. Once you start simmering, the leftover liquid and ingredients can be refrigerated in a covered container and used again for up to 2-3 days before the scent fades.
Freezing
I haven’t tried freezing ingredients for a simmer pot, mainly because I prefer fresh, natural aromas. However, you can freeze citrus peels or cranberries separately if you want to prep ahead, then layer them fresh when assembling the jar.
Reheating
When reheating your simmer pot liquid, I gently warm it on low heat, adding more water as needed to keep everything covered and prevent burning. Never rush it to boil because that can dull the scent and cook the fruit to mush.
FAQs
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Can I use fresh orange slices instead of dried?
Absolutely! Fresh orange slices will give a brighter, more vibrant citrus aroma, but keep in mind they have a shorter shelf life in the jar and should be used within a day or two, especially if stored at room temperature. For longer-lasting jars, dried orange slices are your best friend.
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How do I prevent my simmer pot ingredients from burning?
The key is to keep the water level in your pot high enough to cover the ingredients throughout simmering and to simmer on low heat. I always check the water every 30 minutes or so and add more as needed. Never leave it unattended on the stovetop to avoid any mishaps.
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Can I reuse the simmer pot liquid?
Yes! After it cools, pour the liquid into a sealed container and keep it in the refrigerator. You can reuse it by adding fresh water and simmering again, but the aroma will tend to fade after 2 to 3 uses.
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What’s the best way to gift a Christmas Simmer Pot in a Jar?
Choosing a clear, pretty jar and layering the ingredients carefully makes the gift itself look beautiful. Don’t forget to include a handwritten tag or card with simmering instructions to make it easy and delightful for the recipient to enjoy.
Final Thoughts
I have to say, this Christmas Simmer Pot in a Jar Recipe has become one of my go-to holiday projects over the years. It’s an effortless way to bring the scents and spirit of Christmas into your home, and it doubles as a heartfelt gift that shows you care. Whenever I make one, the cozy aroma fills the house and my family instantly feels that warm holiday magic. I’m confident you’ll enjoy making and sharing these as much as I do—give it a try and watch your home transform into a winter wonderland of scent!
Print
Christmas Simmer Pot in a Jar Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours
- Total Time: 5 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 quart jar
- Category: Beverages
- Method: Simmering on Stovetop or Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Create a cozy and festive atmosphere with this Christmas Simmer Pot in a Jar recipe. Filled with dried orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and fragrant evergreen sprigs, this simmer pot infuses your home with warm, natural holiday aromas. Perfect as a thoughtful handmade gift or a charming centerpiece, it’s simple to assemble and can be simmered on the stovetop or in a slow cooker for hours of comforting fragrance.
Ingredients
Spices and Aromatics
- 2-3 dried orange slices or orange peels
- 2-3 cinnamon sticks
- 1 tablespoon whole cloves
- 1 tablespoon allspice
- 1-2 whole star anise pods
- Optional: 1 teaspoon cardamom pods or a pinch of pumpkin pie spice
Herbs and Greens
- 1-2 sprigs fresh or dried rosemary or evergreen branches (cedar, fir, juniper, or pine work great!)
Additional Color
- 1 small handful of cranberries or goji berries for color
Instructions
- Layer Your Ingredients: Begin by placing the larger items such as dried orange slices and cinnamon sticks into the jar. Follow by layering the cloves, star anise, and the handful of cranberries or goji berries, which add pops of festive color. Finally, tuck in the rosemary or evergreen sprigs to bring a natural, holiday touch to your simmer pot.
- Choose the Right Jar: Select pint-sized or other clear glass jars with lids to hold your simmer pot ingredients. These jars showcase the vibrant, layered ingredients beautifully and make the simmer pot a visually appealing gift.
- Add a Label or Tag: Attach a gift tag or label with simmering instructions for the recipient. Instructions should suggest pouring the jar’s contents into a large pot, stock pot, or slow cooker, adding enough water to cover the ingredients, and simmering on low heat. Remind them to check water levels regularly and replenish as needed while enjoying the cozy aroma.
- Finish with a Decorative Touch: Complete the jar presentation by tying twine or ribbon around the jar lid. Add a decorative sprig of greenery, mini cinnamon stick, or a dried orange slice to enhance the festive look of your simmer pot gift.
Notes
- Always maintain adequate water in the pot during simmering to prevent ingredients from burning; check and add water as needed.
- Dried ingredients provide longer shelf life, but fresh orange slices or rosemary can be used; fresh blends should be used within 1-2 days at room temperature or refrigerated up to a week.
- Customize by substituting lemon peels, apple slices, bay leaves, or cardamom pods. Pumpkin pie spice or vanilla extract can add a dessert-like aroma.
- If using fresh cranberries, refrigerate and use within one week. Dried cranberries offer better longevity in the jar.
- This blend simmers well in a large pot, Dutch oven, small saucepan, or slow cooker. A crock pot on low is ideal for hands-free simmering.
- After simmering, refrigerated cooled mixture can be reused with fresh water but scent fades after 2-3 uses.
- Never leave simmer pot unattended on the stovetop to avoid water evaporation and burning ingredients.
- Fall variations include apple slices and pumpkin pie spice; evergreen sprigs add a wintry Christmas aroma.
- Use leftover citrus peels to reduce waste and add eco-friendly touches.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 quart jar
- Calories: 10 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 0 mg
- Fat: 0 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
