Go Back
Myra Sheikh

Easy Orange and Cinnamon Simmer Pot Recipe

Learn how to make a simmer pot with fresh orange slices, cinnamon, and whole cloves. This easy stovetop potpourri creates a warm citrus fragrance, perfect for cozy evenings, fall, winter, or everyday home freshness. Made with simple ingredients and water, this simmer pot is for home fragrance only, not consumption.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Simmer Time: 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 1 simmer pot
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Simmer Pot Ingredients
  • 1 medium fresh orange washed and sliced
  • 1 whole cinnamon stick
  • 2 whole cloves optional
  • For Simmering
  • 4 cups water 950 ml
  • Additional hot water as needed

Equipment

  • 3-quart saucepan 
  • Cutting board
  • Kitchen knife
  • Measuring cup

Method
 

  1. Prepare the orange: Wash the orange and cut it into thin slices, keeping the peel attached.
  2. Add the ingredients: Place the orange slices, cinnamon stick, and optional cloves into a 3-quart saucepan.
  3. Pour in water: Add 4 cups of water, leaving adequate space below the saucepan rim.
  4. Heat gently: Warm over medium-low heat until steam rises and small bubbles appear.
  5. Reduce the heat: Lower the burner to maintain a gentle simmer without vigorous boiling.
  6. Release the fragrance: Leave the saucepan uncovered and allow the aroma to develop, usually within 15–30 minutes.
  7. Check the water: Monitor frequently, checking approximately every 15–20 minutes or sooner if evaporation is rapid. Add more hot water before the level becomes low.
  8. Finish safely: Turn off the heat when finished or whenever you cannot supervise the saucepan. Allow the mixture to cool safely.

Notes

Stronger fragrance: Add a little fresh orange peel or another small cinnamon stick instead of increasing the heat.
Lighter fragrance: Omit the cloves or reduce the cinnamon for a softer citrus aroma.
Substitutions: Replace orange with mandarin or use fresh ginger instead of cinnamon for a different fragrance.
Simmering time: The fragrance may develop in 15–30 minutes. Continue for 1–2 hours only while supervising and maintaining sufficient water.
Reuse: Cool safely, refrigerate promptly in a covered container, and reuse within approximately 24 hours if still fresh. Discard if mold, sour odors, or deterioration appears.
Slow cooker option: Use a suitable slow cooker with the specified water, following the manufacturer's heating, fill-level, and lid instructions. Continue monitoring throughout.
Important: This simmer pot is for home fragrance only. Do not eat, taste, serve, or drink the mixture. Never leave a heated simmer pot unattended, and never allow the pot to boil dry. Keep the pot and hot liquid away from children and pets.
If you have pets and are unsure about a particular ingredient, check with your veterinarian before using it in your home.