Christmas Potpourri Simmer Pot
Looking for a simple, heartfelt way to bring the cozy scents of Christmas into your home (or gift them to someone special)? This DIY Christmas Simmer Pot Gift Jar is the perfect natural alternative to chemical-laden air fresheners—filled with dried oranges, apples, cranberries, and cinnamon sticks that simmer into pure holiday magic!
Servings 4
Cost 10
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 wide-mouth pint-size jar
- 1 orange thinly sliced
- 1 apple thinly sliced
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- Printable Instructions tag
- Christmas Ribbons
Instructions
How to Dry the Apple and Orange Slices:
- Slice both the apples and oranges into even ⅓-inch thick rounds (any thicker and they won’t dry properly).
- Arrange the slices in a single layer on a wire rack set over a baking sheet (this allows air to circulate on both sides).Oven method: Bake at 200°F (93°C) for 3–4 hours, flipping halfway through, until completely dry and leathery.Dehydrator method: Dry at 130–135°F (57°C) for about 10–12 hours, or until crisp.
Gather Your Supplies:
- Pint-sized mason jars (with lids), Festive ribbon or twine,Cinnamon sticks, Dried orange slices (dried, )Dried apple slices, Whole cloves, fresh cranberries (or dried), rosemary sprigs, or any other add-ins you’re using.
How to Assemble Your Simmer Pot Jar:
- Start by layering the dried orange slices along the inside edge of a clean pint-sized mason jar (stand them upright for a pretty stained-glass effect when the jar is viewed from the side).
- Add a handful of dried apple slices next – tuck them in around the oranges.
- Sprinkle in the dried cranberries (or fresh ones if using right away) – they’ll add beautiful pops of red.
- Finish by nestling in 4–6 cinnamon sticks (break them in half if needed to fit nicely).Screw on the lid
Printable Gift Tags & Finishing Touch:
- Download and print the free printable gift tags here (they’re perfectly sized for your jar lids!):
- Cut each tag out along the outer circle so it fits snugly on top of your metal mason jar lid. The tags already include simple simmering instructions.
- Glue the tag directly to the lid
- Tie a pretty ribbon or twine bow around the rim, and your gift is complete – thoughtful, beautiful, and ready to spread holiday cheer!
To use:
- Empty the contents of the jar to a saucepan and cover with water or place contents in a simmer pot and follow directions on the pot