If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably struggled to find a Christmas gift that’s affordable, easy to make, and still meaningful. I wanted something that felt personal—something that says “I thought of you” without costing a fortune or requiring hours of crafting.
And this year… I think I’ve found it.
Homemade potpourri simmer pots.
These little jars of dried fruit and spices smell warm, sweet, citrusy, and perfectly Christmassy. They’re charming, budget-friendly, and so simple to put together that you can make a dozen in one afternoon.
Homemade gifts because our time is better spent creating with love than chasing consumerist shelves.
Joys of Homemaking
Why Homemade Simmer Pots Make the Perfect Christmas Gift
I got to admit that I never tried these simmer pots before. I loved using synthetic sprays to keep our house smelling good. But friend, once I tried it (only this year), I am in love! I love the sweet and warm scent with a hint of spice. Now every time I simmer this at home, our home smells sweet and warm and spicey just like the season.
And all you need to do is toss the ingredients into a pot of water, let it gently bubble, and suddenly the whole home smells like the holidays.
Imagine the aromas of:
- Sweet oranges warming on the stove
- Fresh cranberries popping with color
- Cinnamon sticks filling the air with cozy spice
- Cloves adding that unmistakable Christmas warmth
- Rosemary or pine giving a fresh “winter forest” touch
It’s a scent that reminds you of baking cookies, decorating the tree, wrapping gifts, and all the cozy moments we love about this season.
What I love most?
This gift isn’t just pretty—it creates an experience. It fills a home with joy, warmth, and a calm feeling during one of the busiest months of the year.
The Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of holiday simmer pots is how customizable they are. But here’s a simple version that looks beautiful and smells amazing:
Basic Christmas Simmer Pot Recipe:
I want my gift to last longer so I am using dried ingredients except for rosemary sprigs-- only because I don't have dried ones.
- Dried orange slices
- Dried cranberries – about 4 tbsp
- 1-2 cinnamon sticks
- 6 pieces star anise
- 3 sprigs of rosemary or small pine clipping
- 2-4 small dried apple slices
Supplies:
- Mason jars, clear treat bags, or small airtight containers
- Ribbon, twine, or fabric scraps
- A handwritten or printed tag with instructions
Most of these ingredients are inexpensive, especially if you buy in bulk. And dried oranges and apples? You can make them at home by baking sliced oranges at a low temperature until completely dried—cheap and gorgeous!
How to Assemble Your Homemade Potpourri
Putting these together is incredibly simple:
- Dry your orange slices (if doing homemade).
- Layer the ingredients into mason jars or bags—start with cinnamon sticks and oranges, tuck in cranberries and star anise, then slide in apple slices.
- Add a pretty label with the name of the blend (Holiday Simmer Pot is perfect!) and short instructions.
- Dress it up with ribbon or twine. And instead of covering it with a lid, you may want to use a baking paper tied with a twine for a more rustic touch.
The finished jar looks rustic, natural, and just plain beautiful. It’s the kind of gift that feels homemade in the sweetest way.
How to Use a Holiday Simmer Pot (Include Instructions on Your Tag!)
Your recipients can fill their home with Christmas cheer in minutes. Here’s the simple instruction to include:
“Pour contents into a small pot or slow cooker. Add 2–3 cups of water.
Simmer on low and add more water as needed. Enjoy the holiday scent!”
Some people even keep the simmer pot going all day long, topping up the water whenever it gets low.
Why This Gift Feels So Meaningful
In a season filled with busyness, consumerism, and stress, this gift brings people back to something simple and beautiful:
the joy of a cozy home.
It says:
- “Slow down.”
- “Enjoy the moment.”
- “You deserve something warm and comforting.”
Handmade gifts like this have a way of touching people’s hearts more than anything store-bought.
Looking for more Homemade Christmas Ideas?
Check out the following posts!
If you’re looking for a Christmas gift that’s thoughtful, beautiful, budget-friendly, and wonderfully simple, this homemade holiday simmer pot is truly perfect. It smells amazing, looks festive, and feels like a warm hug in a jar.
Whether you’re giving it to teachers, coworkers, neighbors, friends, or family, it’s a gift that brings instant cheer.
