7 Cozy Simmer Pot Recipes for Yule and Winter

A simmer pot is the easiest kitchen-witch ritual there is: a pot of water, a handful of fruit, herbs and spices, and a low flame. Within minutes your home smells like the holidays, and the steam carries your intention through every room. These seven blends are made for Yule, the winter solstice and the long cozy evenings around it.

How to make any simmer pot

• Fill a medium pot two thirds full with water.
• Add your ingredients and bring to a gentle boil.
• Reduce to the lowest heat, uncovered, and let it steam for a few hours.
• Top up with hot water as it reduces, and compost the ingredients at the end of the day.

Kitchen safety note: never leave a simmering pot unattended, keep the water level topped up, and keep pets and little ones away from the stove. Simmer pots are for scent, not for drinking.

7 simmer pot blends

1. Yule Classic

• You will need: 1 orange sliced, 1 cup cranberries, 3 cinnamon sticks, a sprig of rosemary, 1 tsp whole cloves
• How to: Simmer together on low.
• Intention: Warmth, welcome and the return of the light.

2. Winter Solstice Citrus

• You will need: 1 lemon and 1 orange sliced, a few bay leaves, 2 star anise, a slice of fresh ginger
• How to: Simmer gently and add water as needed.
• Intention: Fresh starts and a clear head.

3. Apple Orchard Cozy

• You will need: 2 apples sliced, 2 cinnamon sticks, 1 tsp nutmeg, a splash of vanilla, a few cloves
• How to: Simmer on low.
• Intention: Comfort, home and gratitude.

4. Evergreen Forest

• You will need: A few sprigs of pine or fir, 1 sliced lemon, a sprig of rosemary, 2 bay leaves
• How to: Use food-safe, pesticide-free greenery and simmer on low.
• Intention: Protection and a peaceful hearth.

5. Spiced Pear and Vanilla

• You will need: 2 pears sliced, 1 vanilla bean or 1 tsp extract, 2 cinnamon sticks, 3 cardamom pods
• How to: Simmer gently.
• Intention: Sweetness and gentle self-care.

6. Cranberry Hearth Glow

• You will need: 1 cup cranberries, 1 orange peel, 1 tsp allspice berries, 2 cinnamon sticks
• How to: Simmer on low.
• Intention: Prosperity and cheerful company.

7. Moonlit Lavender Honey

• You will need: 1 lemon sliced, 1 tbsp dried lavender, 1 tsp honey, 1 vanilla bean
• How to: Simmer very gently.
• Intention: Calm, rest and sweet dreams.

Make it a gift

Layer dried orange slices, cinnamon sticks, star anise and cloves in a glass jar, tie on a tag with the instructions, and you have a thoughtful Yule gift. Save this post for the next time you want your whole home to smell like winter.