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Cranberry Cinnamon Simmering Potpourri

This simmering potpourri combines fresh cranberries and aromatic cinnamon sticks simmered in water to produce a bright, spicy fragrance. The mixture develops a vibrant, bubbly appearance as the cranberries burst and the spices release their scent, filling the space with a warm, festive aroma without any actual cooking or consumption.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: seasonal
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups fresh cranberries rinsed
  • 3 cinnamon sticks cinnamon sticks whole
  • 4 cups water

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan or pot
  • Ladle or spoon

Method
 

  1. Pour water into a medium saucepan and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
  2. Add the cinnamon sticks to the simmering water, allowing their aroma to infuse as they gently release their spice into the liquid.
  3. Stir in the rinsed cranberries, watching as they start to pop and burst, releasing their tart juice into the mixture.
  4. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 20–25 minutes, letting the cranberries burst fully and the cinnamon steep, creating a fragrant, bubbling brew.
  5. Use a ladle or spoon to occasionally stir the mixture, helping distribute the aroma and prevent sticking or burning at the bottom.
  6. Once the cranberries have fully burst and the mixture is fragrant, turn off the heat and carefully transfer to a heatproof bowl or keep it on low to continue simmering gently.

Notes

Keep an eye on the water level to prevent burning. You can add a splash of orange juice or vanilla for variation. Refill with hot water as needed to maintain aroma and volume.