Pumpkin Spice Simmer Pot – A Naturally Cosy Scent for Any Season
- Astrid van Essen
- Apr 25
- 3 min read
Even though summer is just around the corner, I’ll be honest—sometimes I still crave that warm, spiced scent that makes the house feel instantly cosy. On those quieter days, I love putting on a small pot and letting the gentle steam fill my kitchen with the comforting aroma of pumpkin spice. It’s like a soft, spiced hug for the senses—no matter the season.

If you’ve already made a batch of pumpkin spice syrup (you can find the full recipe here), why not go one step further and create a pumpkin spice simmer pot too? It’s an easy, natural way to fragrance your home using whole spices and simple ingredients—no synthetic scents or sprays in sight.
Pumpkin Spice Simmer Pot Recipe
Here’s how to bring those delicious autumn vibes into your home, even on a spring or summer afternoon:
Ingredients:
2–3 cinnamon sticks
1 tsp whole cloves
½ tsp ground nutmeg (or a few shavings of fresh nutmeg)
1 tsp ground ginger or a few slices of fresh ginger
Peel from 1 orange or a few apple slices
1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
2 tbsp pumpkin purée (yes, really!) or mashed butternut squash (yes, it works wonderfully!)
Instructions:
Fill a small saucepan or simmer pot about ¾ full with water.
Add all ingredients and bring to a gentle boil.
Reduce the heat and let it simmer, topping up the water as needed throughout the day.
🍂 What It Smells Like
Imagine the scent of fresh-baked pie, warm spiced cider, and that delicious feeling of coming home. It’s a rich, nostalgic fragrance that brings a sense of comfort and stillness—perfect for winding down or just making a regular day feel a bit special.
🌞 Summer Twist
If you want to keep it a bit lighter for warmer weather, try this easy variation:
Swap the apple for lemon or orange slices
Use less clove and nutmeg for a more subtle spice
Add a sprig of rosemary or mint for a refreshing herbal note
It retains the warmth, but with a subtle citrus note to complement the brighter days.
Whether you’re making a pumpkin spice syrup latte, baking with the syrup, or simmering this blend on the stove, pumpkin spice has a beautiful way of adding heart to your home. It’s not just for autumn—and I’m all for bringing it out any time the mood strikes.
Let me know if you try it—I’d love to hear your favourite ways to make your home feel cosy, whatever the season.
FAQ: Pumpkin Spice Simmer Pot
1. Can I reuse the simmer pot ingredients? You can! Let everything cool down, cover the pot, and then refrigerate it. You can usually reheat the mix 1–2 more times the next day—keep topping it up with water as needed.
2. What if I don’t have butternut squash or pumpkin purée?No problem. You can still get that lovely spiced scent using the spices alone. Or try adding a few chunks of fresh apple or carrot for a hint of sweetness and warmth.
3. Can I use this in a slow cooker or crock pot? Yes! A slow cooker or crock pot is perfect for this—just set it to low, leave the lid off, and enjoy the scent for hours. Just remember to keep an eye on the water level.
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