Spiced Cider Simmering Spices

Now that cooler temperatures are trying to sneak in, I can really start thinking about Fall, and Fall scents for my home. One of my favorite things about Fall and winter is scenting my home with my favorite scents. In the Fall, I especially love the smell of Spiced cider. It's one of my favorites. So here is a quick and easy Primitive Recipe for my Spiced Cider Simmering Spices. (Note: this is not a beverage...it's like potpourri and is only meant to be enjoyed as a way to scent your home.)

Now this recipe is simple because there aren't precise amounts of anything. You can use whatever amounts you'd like of each ingredient, based on your preference, and the total amount you're trying to make. And you can add your own additional ingredients if you'd like, or leave out things you may not like. It's totally up to you. But here's what I use.

• Dried Apple Slices
• Bay Leaves
• Whole Cloves
• Star Anise
• Cinnamon Sticks (small chunks or large, your choice)
• Crushed Corn Cob (this is used to help absorb the fragrance oil since some ingredients are less porous than others--so it will help maintain the scent)
• Fragrance Oil, Spiced Cider scent

I just mix these ingredients in the amounts I want to fit in whatever pan or simmering potpourri pot I'll be simmering them in. I add the ingredients to a glass bowl and then drizzle in a couple teaspoons of the fragrance oil and stir it up well. Always do a little oil at a time, especially if you're only making a small amount of simmering spices. You don't want to add too much. Then I put it all in a glass jar for a few days to cure.

When you're ready to simmer, just add the simmering spices to your pot or pan with some water and simmer away. You can totally simmer these spices on the stovetop if you don't have a potpourri pot--but be sure to use an old pan. Any time you use fragrance oil you want to use an old pan, because the oil could ruin it. Also be sure to check your water level regularly so that it doesn't evaporate away. I always use just enough water to cover the spices. 

These Prim Fixins are just the perfect way to make your home smell like Primitive Fall has arrived! You can also make batches of this and package them up to give as gifts, or to sell too. They'd make great hostess gifts at a Fall party.