There’s something about the scent of cinnamon and apples gently bubbling on the stove that makes my whole body exhale.

When the weather starts to turn, and sweaters come out of the closet, one of the first things I do is make a fall simmer pot. It’s such a simple act, but it shifts the whole atmosphere, like telling your home, we’re settling in now.

I LOVE fall smells, but I don’t like the fragrances and chemicals that come from candles from the stores. So I decided to make a simmer pot that smelled like fall and was immediately hooked.

I remember the first time I made one. I had bits of leftover apple from a snack with my kids, a few sprigs of rosemary from the garden, and some cinnamon sticks I’d bought for baking.

I dropped them into a small pot of water, added a splash of vanilla, and within minutes the whole house smelled like Autumn. Since then, it’s become a seasonal ritual I look forward to, and now my kids do too!

Here is my simple yet amazing DIY Fall simmer pot recipe so you can enjoy this delicious smell in your home too!

The Herbal Benefits of Fall Simmer Pot Ingredients

Even though simmer pots are mainly used for scent, the herbs and spices they contain still offer gentle, supportive benefits to your body and mind through the air you breathe.

Cinnamon: Warm and uplifting, cinnamon can uplift the mood. Its spicy sweetness feels grounding and comforting, perfect for chilly days.

Apples: While mostly here for their cozy fall scent, apples add a hint of fruity brightness.

Star Anise: This beautiful star-shaped spice has a lightly sweet, licorice-like scent.

Cloves: Strong, spicy, and full of depth, cloves have purifying properties and are often used to support respiratory health. In a simmer pot, they bring a rich, cozy warmth that lingers beautifully.

Rosemary: One of my favorites. Rosemary clears the mind, lifts the spirits, and even helps support focus and memory. Its crisp, herbal note balances the sweetness of the other ingredients perfectly.

Vanilla Extract: Just a splash of vanilla softens the sharper scents and brings everything together with a gentle warmth. Vanilla is often associated with comfort and calm, and even just a little feels like a hug.

Plus, I really just love the smell of vanilla so I usually put it in everything!

Pin This Post For Later:

Some of these links are affiliate links meaning if you purchase from these links, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Everything I share is my own opinions and things I personally use and love. You can learn more by reviewing my disclosure. As an Amazon affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

How to Make a DIY Fall Simmer Pot

Here is how I made my fall simmer pot:

Ingredients

1-2 cinnamon sticks
1 apple, sliced (any variety works)
2-3 star anise pods
5-6 whole cloves
1 sprig fresh rosemary (or 1 tsp dried)
1 tsp vanilla extract
3-4 cups water

Instructions

Combine all the ingredients in a small saucepan.
Bring to a gentle simmer over low medium heat.
Reduce to a simmer and let it gently bubble on the stove. Add more water as needed to keep it going.
Enjoy the comforting aroma that fills your home.

You can reuse the same pot for a day or two by storing it in the fridge and reheating. Just add a bit more water each time.

Fall Simmer Pot

Materials

1-2 cinnamon sticks
1 apple, sliced (any variety works)
2-3 star anise pods
5-6 whole cloves
1 sprig fresh rosemary (or 1 tsp dried)
1 tsp vanilla extract
3-4 cups water

Instructions

Combine all the ingredients in a small saucepan.
Bring to a gentle simmer over low medium heat.
Reduce to a simmer and let it gently bubble on the stove. Add more water as needed to keep it going.
Enjoy the comforting aroma that fills your home.

Notes

You can reuse the same pot for a day or two by storing it in the fridge and reheating. Just add a bit more water each time.

Final Thoughts

Fall is a season that invites us to slow down, get cozy, and take joy in small comforts. A simmer pot is such a simple way to bring warmth and intention into your space.

You don’t need to buy anything fancy; just a few ingredients, a pot, and some quiet time to let the scent wrap around your day.