Apple Orange Cinnamon Clove Simmer Pot for Fall
For a fall simmer pot that combines orchard fruit with bright citrus, try apple, orange, cinnamon, and clove. The apple creates a soft fruit base, orange adds lift, and whole spices provide warmth.
Ingredients
- ½ small apple, sliced
- ½ orange, sliced
- 1 cinnamon stick
- ¼–½ teaspoon whole cloves
- Water, enough to cover the ingredients without overfilling
How to Make It
- Wash and slice the apple and orange.
- Add fruit, cinnamon, and cloves to a pot or mini slow cooker.
- Add water below the maximum fill level.
- Warm gently.
- Check the water regularly and add more before it gets low.
- Switch off and unplug when finished.

What This Blend Smells Like
Apple gives the blend a mellow fruit character, orange keeps it bright, cinnamon adds familiar warmth, and clove brings a deeper spice note. If you want the citrus to stand out, use thinner orange slices and keep the clove quantity modest.
Use a 0.65 qt / 20 oz Mini Slow Cooker
A mini slow cooker can keep this small-batch recipe compact. The Qvin model has a 0.65 qt / 20 oz capacity. The basic model has no temperature-control dial, so monitor the water level and unplug when finished.
Shop the Qvin 0.65 qt Mini Slow Cooker
For adjustable control, choose the Qvin 0.65 qt / 20 oz model with OFF, LOW, HIGH, and WARM settings.
Shop the Adjustable-Temperature Model
Easy Variations
- Add rosemary for a green herbal note.
- Replace part of the apple with pear for a softer fruit profile.
- Add a small amount of star anise for a holiday-style variation.
- Use extra orange when you want more citrus character.
Safety Tips
- Do not drink the mixture.
- Never allow the water to run dry.
- Use a stable, heat-safe surface.
- Keep children and pets away from hot water.
- Do not leave the appliance running while sleeping or away.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use apple peels?
Yes, clean apple peels can contribute aroma. Discard them if they are old, damaged, or treated in a way you do not want heated.
Can I make this recipe without cloves?
Yes. Cinnamon and the fruit can stand on their own if you prefer a lighter spice profile.
Is a simmer pot the same as potpourri?
They serve a similar home-fragrance purpose, but a simmer pot uses water and gentle heat, while traditional dry potpourri is not heated in water.