Spiced Pumpkin Simmer Potpourri
This simmer potpourri combines pumpkin scraps with fragrant spices like cinnamon and cloves to create an aromatic homemade air freshener. The mixture is gently simmered on the stove, releasing a warm, seasonally evocative aroma that fills the space with autumnal scent. It produces a soft, fragrant liquid with floating spice elements, enhancing the cozy atmosphere of your home.
Equipment
- Medium saucepot or saucepan
- Ladle or slotted spoon
Ingredients
- 2-3 cups pumpkin scraps (peel, seeds, and flesh) roughly chopped
- 4 cinnamon sticks cinnamon sticks
- 4 cloves whole cloves
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
- 4 cups water
Instructions
- Add pumpkin scraps, cinnamon sticks, cloves, pumpkin pie spice, and water to a medium saucepot. Place over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer, allowing the mixture to start bubbling slowly.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently. As it simmer, the aroma of spices and pumpkin will start to fill the air, and the liquid will begin to darken slightly.
- Use a ladle or slotted spoon to occasionally skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface, keeping the scent pure and fresh.
- Let the mixture simmer uncovered for about 20 to 30 minutes, until the liquid has reduced slightly and the fragrance is rich and warm.
- Taste the mixture—if desired, add a splash of orange juice or a pinch of nutmeg to brighten or warm the scent even more.
- Enjoy the cozy, fragrant atmosphere! You can let it simmer on low for hours or turn it off when the scent has reached your desired intensity.
Notes
Keep an eye on the water level during simmering; add more water as needed to prevent burning or drying out. For a stronger scent, add fresh cinnamon sticks or orange slices during simmering. Remove the pumpkin scraps and spice sticks once the desired aroma is achieved.