Holiday Spice Potpourri Recipe
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There’s nothing like the warm, cozy scent of the holidays filling your home to make everything feel festive. While candles and sprays are great, homemade potpourri is a classic, natural way to infuse your space with the smells of the season. And the best part? It’s super easy to make! This holiday spice potpourri recipe will have your home smelling like a cozy Christmas cabin in no time, with minimal effort and maximum cheer.
Let’s get into the step-by-step process and tips for creating your own holiday spice potpourri.
1. Gather Your Ingredients
Start by rounding up a mix of fragrant ingredients that scream “holiday magic.” Here’s what you’ll need:
- Dried citrus slices: Oranges, lemons, or even limes work well (you can do this yourself with instructions below).
- Whole spices: Think cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and nutmeg.
- Herbs: Rosemary and bay leaves add an earthy touch.
- Dried cranberries: These add a pop of color and a subtle fruity note.
- Optional extras: Pinecones, sprigs of evergreen, or even dried apple slices for variety.
Pro tip: Choose ingredients you already love the smell of—that’s what makes it feel personal and festive.
2. Slice and Dry Your Citrus

Citrus slices are a potpourri staple, and drying them yourself is easy.
- Preheat your oven to the lowest setting (around 200°F).
- Slice oranges and lemons into thin, even slices.
- Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 2–3 hours, flipping them halfway through.
You’ll know they’re ready when they’re completely dry but still vibrant in color.
3. Select Your Spices

The spices are the heart of the holiday potpourri. You can buy whole spices from your local store, or raid your pantry for what you already have.
Here are some classics:
- Cinnamon sticks for warmth
- Whole cloves for that spicy kick
- Star anise for a hint of licorice sweetness
- Nutmeg (whole or grated) for depth
Mix and match to create your perfect blend of holiday aromas.
4. Add Some Herbs

Fresh or dried herbs add a touch of earthiness that balances out the sweetness of the citrus and spices. Rosemary sprigs are a great choice, as are bay leaves. Their subtle fragrance complements the other ingredients without overpowering them.
5. Throw in Some Dried Cranberries
Dried cranberries not only add a festive pop of red but also provide a light fruity aroma. You can buy them pre-dried or dry them yourself by placing fresh cranberries in the oven at 200°F for about 4–5 hours.
6. Layer It for Visual Appeal
Here’s the fun part: assembling your potpourri!
- Start with a layer of dried citrus slices in a clear jar or bowl.
- Add a handful of spices, spreading them evenly.
- Layer in herbs and dried cranberries for bursts of color.
Repeat these layers until your jar or bowl is full. The layers give your potpourri that “Pinterest-worthy” look.
7. Add Optional Extras for Flair
For an extra festive touch, include pinecones, small sprigs of evergreen, or dried apple slices. These not only add texture but also enhance the holiday vibe. A few drops of essential oil (like orange, cinnamon, or clove) can boost the scent if you want it extra strong.
8. Display Your Potpourri

Once your potpourri is assembled, it’s time to show it off.
- Use a decorative bowl or mason jar to display it on a coffee table, mantle, or kitchen counter.
- Place smaller portions in sachets or small jars to tuck into drawers or give as gifts.
Not only does it smell amazing, but it doubles as decor.
9. Use Heat to Enhance the Aroma
To really spread that holiday magic, heat your potpourri.
- Add a handful of your potpourri to a small saucepan with water.
- Simmer it on low heat, adding more water as needed to keep it from drying out.
- Alternatively, use a small crockpot to keep the scent going for hours without worry.
Your home will smell like a holiday wonderland in no time.
10. Store Any Extras
If you’ve made more potpourri than you need right now, no worries! Store the leftovers for later.
- Use airtight containers to preserve the scent.
- Keep the containers in a cool, dry place to prevent mold or moisture.
- Refresh the scent later with a drop or two of essential oils.
Your stash will stay ready for whenever you need a festive refresh.
11. Turn It into Gifts

Holiday spice potpourri isn’t just for your home—it’s also a perfect homemade gift!
- Scoop portions into mason jars or small fabric sachets.
- Add a festive ribbon or tag with instructions for use.
- Pair it with a handwritten note or a small ornament for a thoughtful holiday touch.
This is a great way to spread the holiday cheer without breaking the bank.
12. Get Creative with Your Recipe
There’s no wrong way to make potpourri, so feel free to experiment.
- Swap out oranges for grapefruit or blood oranges for a deeper citrus scent.
- Add dried lavender or mint for a unique twist.
- Play with different spice combinations to find your signature holiday blend.
The beauty of homemade potpourri is that it’s completely customizable, so let your creativity shine.
A Holiday Scent That Feels Like Home
This holiday spice potpourri recipe is a simple, natural way to bring the festive season into your home. With just a few ingredients and a little creativity, you can create something that smells amazing, looks beautiful, and spreads cheer to everyone who walks through your door.
So, which combination are you most excited to try? Whether you’re making it for yourself or gifting it to others, this recipe is sure to fill the season with warmth and joy. Happy potpourri-making!