Autumn Potpourri

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies 

Before we begin, make sure you have all your ingredients and supplies ready. You'll need a slow cooker, a cutting board, a knife, and a wooden spoon for stirring.

Step 2: Prepare the Fruits

Wash the oranges and apples thoroughly. Cut them into quarters. The skin of the oranges and the peels of the apples are essential for releasing their fragrances, so don't skip this step.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

Place the quartered oranges and apples into your slow cooker. Add the cinnamon sticks and whole cloves on top of the fruit. These ingredients are the heart of your potpourri and will infuse the air with delightful autumn scents.

Step 4: Add Water

Pour two cups of water into the slow cooker over the fruit and spices. The water will help release the aromatic compounds into the air as it simmers.

Step 5: Set Your Slow Cooker

Turn your slow cooker on the low heat setting. The low heat will gently simmer the ingredients, releasing their wonderful scents throughout your home. Leave the potpourri to simmer for several hours. You can also adjust the cooking time to your preference; some people prefer a shorter simmer for a milder fragrance, while others like a longer simmer for a stronger aroma.

Step 6: Enjoy the Aromas 

As your potpourri simmers, your home will be filled with the warm and inviting scents of autumn. The combination of citrusy orange, sweet apple, spicy cinnamon, and earthy cloves creates a harmonious symphony of fall fragrances. You can leave the slow cooker running for as long as you like, just remember to check the water level occasionally and add more if needed to prevent it from drying out.