Spiced Apple Cider Potpourri
This potpourri simmers seasonal apple cider with fragrant herbs and warm spices, creating a fragrant, cozy aroma that fills your home. The mixture involves gently simmering ingredients on the stove to release layers of cinnamon, clove, and citrus scents, resulting in a simmered, aromatic liquid that can be enjoyed as a natural air freshener.
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon
Ingredients
- 4 cups apple cider preferably unfiltered for richer aroma
- 2 cinnamon sticks cinnamon sticks for warm spice aroma
- 4 cloves whole cloves adds depth and warmth
- 1 orange orange sliced into rounds for zest and brightness
Instructions
- Pour the apple cider into a medium saucepan and place it over medium heat. You’ll notice it starting to warm and shimmer, filling the kitchen with a gentle fruity aroma.
- Add the cinnamon sticks and whole cloves to the cider. Give it a gentle stir with a wooden spoon so the spices begin to release their fragrances as the mixture warms.
- Place the orange slices into the saucepan, distributing them evenly so their bright citrus scent infuses into the cider as it continues to simmer.
- Lower the heat to maintain a gentle simmer — you should see small bubbles around the edges without a rolling boil. Let everything simmer for about 20-30 minutes, allowing the scents to meld beautifully.
- Occasionally, give the mixture a quick stir to help release the aroma of the spices and citrus. Keep an eye to prevent it from boiling over or burning on the bottom.
- Once the mixture is fragrant and the cider has taken on a rich, spicy aroma, remove it from the heat. You can ladle it into a serving container or leave it in the pan to keep warm, filling your space with cozy scents.
Notes
Feel free to customize by adding herbs like rosemary or thyme, or sostring in vanilla for extra warmth. Replenish the water as needed to maintain the simmer and scent release.