If you love the smell of cozy winters and holiday magic, you’ll absolutely adore this **Christmas Simmer Pot in a Jar Recipe**. It’s super simple to put together, makes a beautiful gift, and fills your home with the most inviting seasonal scents. I remember when I first tried this — just one small jar on my stove and suddenly the whole kitchen felt like a Christmas market. Stick around, and I’ll walk you through everything from picking the ingredients to tips for simmering success. Trust me, you’re going to want to make this a holiday tradition!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple to Assemble: No cooking skills required—just layering ingredients in a jar.
- Festively Aromatic: Your home will smell like Christmas morning in minutes.
- Perfect Gift Idea: Beautiful jars full of lovely spices are ready to give with minimal effort.
- Customizable & Reusable: Tweak the blend easily and reuse the mix for a few rounds of simmering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This jars together wonderfully aromatic spices and natural accents that highlight the Christmas spirit. Each ingredient adds something special—bright citrus, warm spices, and evergreen notes—you’ll love how they blend.
- Dried orange slices or orange peels: These give a fresh, zesty scent and look stunning layered in the jar.
- Cinnamon sticks: A classic spicy note that’s essential for any Christmas aroma.
- Whole cloves: Intense and sweet-spicy, they add depth and warmth.
- Allspice: A mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove hints in one, perfectly rounded flavor.
- Fresh or dried rosemary or evergreen branches: Adds a woodsy, fresh-green scent reminiscent of pine forests.
- Whole star anise pods: Their star shape looks beautiful and the scent is subtly sweet and licorice-like.
- Cranberries or goji berries: Add pops of festive color and slight tartness.
- Optional cardamom pods or pumpkin pie spice: For a twist of warmth or sweet holiday spice.
Variations
I love playing around with this recipe! You’ll find it super easy to make it your own by swapping a few ingredients or adding your favorite seasonal touches. It’s a fantastic way to make sure every jar feels like it was made just for you or your giftee.
- Apple slices and pumpkin pie spice: I tried this variation once for a fall gathering, and it filled the house with warm, inviting autumn scents perfect for Thanksgiving.
- Lemon peels instead of orange: For a slightly brighter citrus aroma that still keeps it festive and fresh.
- Evergreen sprigs alone: These bring a forest-y, wintry vibe and are my go-to if I run out of oranges or cinnamon sticks.
- Add a splash of vanilla extract: For a sweeter, dessert-like simmer pot experience that I use when kids are around—they love it!
How to Make Christmas Simmer Pot in a Jar Recipe
Step 1: Layer Your Festive Ingredients Carefully
Start by placing your larger items like dried orange slices and cinnamon sticks at the bottom of your jar. This not only looks pretty but also ensures the heavier pieces don’t crush the more delicate things. Then add the cloves, star anise, and cranberries to bring color and fragrance. Lastly, tuck in the rosemary or evergreen sprigs — they add that quintessential Christmas forest aroma that ties everything together. I like to press the sprigs gently so they sit just right without overcrowding the jar.
Step 2: Choose the Perfect Jar for Display
I always go for pint-sized clear glass jars with lids to show off all the beautiful layers. It’s like a mini decoration you can set out or gift. Plus, the seal helps keep everything fresh until you’re ready to simmer. You’ll find mason jars or similar containers work beautifully.
Step 3: Add Gift Tags and Decorative Touches
This is where you can get creative! Tie twine or ribbon around the jar’s neck and add a sprig of pine, a mini cinnamon stick, or a dried orange slice. I discovered that attaching a simple label with simmering instructions is super helpful for whoever receives the jar: “Pour contents into a pot, cover with water, simmer low, and enjoy.” Makes gifting effortless and lovely.
Pro Tips for Making Christmas Simmer Pot in a Jar Recipe
- Water Level Is Key: I learned the hard way that keeping enough water while simmering prevents burning—always check every hour and add more water as needed.
- Dried Is Durable: Using dried oranges and herbs means your jar lasts longer; fresh ingredients are lovely but need to be used quickly.
- Slow Cooker Magic: For a fuss-free simmer pot, I rely on my slow cooker set to low—it’s hands-off, and the scent fills my house evenly all day.
- Label Your Jar: Adding simmer instructions prevents confusion and makes your gift instantly user-friendly.
How to Serve Christmas Simmer Pot in a Jar Recipe
Garnishes
While garnishes aren’t necessary for a simmer pot, I like to add a few fresh rosemary sprigs or a dried orange wheel on top when presenting as a gift or setting it out for guests. It makes the jar look extra special and gives a preview of the smells inside.
Side Dishes
Since this is more about creating atmosphere than eating, I love pairing the simmer pot experience with warm drinks like spiced cider, hot chocolate, or mulled wine. It makes everything feel like a cohesive holiday celebration.
Creative Ways to Present
For holiday parties or gifts, you can group several jars in a rustic basket lined with pine branches or festive fabric. Adding a handmade tag or little ornament to each jar turns a simple gift into something memorable. I once wrapped a few jars with burlap ribbon and let the kids decorate with cinnamon stick “bows” — it was such a hit!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you end up with leftover simmer pot mix after gift-giving or multiple pots, store the unused jar in a cool, dry place. Dried ingredients can last for months this way, but if you use fresh herbs, refrigerate and plan to use within a week.
Freezing
I haven’t tried freezing these jars simply because dried simmer ingredients store well at room temperature. If you’re using a lot of fresh fruit or herbs, it’s better to use them right away or share fresh bundles as gifts rather than freeze.
Reheating
When you want to re-simmer your pot, just pour the contents into a pot, add fresh water to cover, and gently heat on low. I usually simmer for a few hours, topping up water as needed. The scent gradually softens after 2-3 uses, so I refresh by adding a few new spices or herbs.
FAQs
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Can I use fresh ingredients instead of dried in the Christmas Simmer Pot in a Jar Recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh oranges, rosemary, or evergreens add a lively aroma, but fresh items have a shorter shelf life. Use the jar within 1-2 days if kept at room temperature or store refrigerated for up to a week. For longer-lasting jars, dried ingredients are preferred.
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How long does the simmer pot fragrance last when simmering?
You’ll get the most fragrant burst during the first 1-3 simmering sessions. After that, the scent becomes milder. To maintain a strong aroma, add fresh spices or herbs to revive the mix or prepare a new jar.
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Is the Christmas Simmer Pot in a Jar Recipe safe to leave unattended on the stove?
It’s best not to leave your simmer pot unattended, especially on the stove top, because the water can evaporate and cause the ingredients to burn. If you want a worry-free option, use a slow cooker on the low setting and check water levels periodically.
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Can I give the Christmas Simmer Pot in a Jar Recipe as a gift?
Definitely! In fact, this simmer pot makes a beautiful and thoughtful holiday gift. The clear jar shows off the ingredients, and adding a handmade label with simmering instructions makes the gift easy and charming.
Final Thoughts
This Christmas Simmer Pot in a Jar Recipe holds a special place in my holiday routines. Every year, I make a few to use and share, and the warm, natural scent fills my home with happiness and nostalgia. If you’re looking for a cozy, creative, and easy way to bring the spirit of the season into your house, I wholeheartedly recommend giving this a try. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without that comforting simmer pot aroma during chilly winter days.
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: Holiday Beverage/Simmer Pot
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Create a festive and aromatic Christmas Simmer Pot in a Jar with dried oranges, cinnamon, cloves, and fragrant evergreens. This simmer pot keeps your home cozy with natural holiday scents and makes a thoughtful, beautiful gift.
Ingredients
Simmer Pot Ingredients
- 2-3 dried orange slices or orange peels
- 2-3 cinnamon sticks
- 1 tablespoon whole cloves
- 1 tablespoon allspice
- 1-2 sprigs fresh or dried rosemary or evergreen branches (cedar, fir, juniper, or pine)
- 1-2 whole star anise pods
- 1 small handful of cranberries or goji berries for color
- Optional: 1 teaspoon cardamom pods or a pinch of pumpkin pie spice
Instructions
- Layer Your Ingredients: Begin with the larger items like dried orange slices and cinnamon sticks, placing them at the bottom or center of your jar. Layer in the cloves, star anise pods, and cranberries next to add pops of festive color. Finally, tuck sprigs of rosemary or evergreen branches among the other ingredients for a natural, aromatic touch.
- Choose the Right Jar: Use pint-sized or similar clear glass jars with lids so the colorful ingredients are visible, making the jar visually appealing and gift-worthy. Ensure the jar is clean and dry before layering.
- Add a Label or Tag: Attach a gift tag or label with simmering instructions. Write: “Pour the contents of the jar into a large pot, stock pot, or slow cooker. Add enough water to cover the ingredients and simmer on low heat. Keep an eye on the water level, adding fresh water as needed. Enjoy the cozy, natural aroma!” This helps the recipient use the simmer pot safely and effectively.
- Finish with a Decorative Touch: Tie twine, ribbon, or festive string around the jar lid to give it a charming holiday look. Add a sprig of greenery, a mini cinnamon stick, or a dried orange slice to the top for an extra decorative flourish.
Notes
- Water Level: Always maintain enough water in your simmer pot to prevent the ingredients from burning. Check periodically and add fresh water as needed when simmering.
- Fresh vs. Dried Ingredients: Dried orange slices and herbs last longer but fresh orange slices and rosemary can be used. If using fresh, consume or use the simmer pot within 1-2 days at room temperature or up to a week refrigerated.
- Customizations: Consider swapping ingredients like lemon peels, apple slices, or bay leaves. Adding cardamom pods, pumpkin pie spice, or a splash of vanilla extract can make the aroma more dessert-like.
- Cranberries: Fresh cranberries should be refrigerated and used within one week while dried cranberries help extend shelf life in your jar.
- Simmering Methods: This blend works well in a large pot, Dutch oven, small saucepan, or slow cooker. A small crock pot on low is ideal for hands-free simmering.
- Reusable Ingredients: After simmering, cool and refrigerate the potpourri mixture. Reuse by adding fresh water the next day. The scent typically fades after 2-3 uses.
- Safety Tip: Never leave a simmer pot unattended on the stovetop because evaporation can cause burning.
- Seasonal Variations: For fall, add apple slices and pumpkin pie spice. For Christmas, include evergreen sprigs to deepen the festive aroma.
- Eco-Friendly Option: Leftover citrus peels like orange or lemon scraps are excellent additions to reduce waste and boost fragrance.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 quart simmer pot
- Calories: 10
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
