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Vanilla Cinnamon Simmer Recipe

4.6 from 140 reviews

A cozy and fragrant Vanilla Cinnamon Simmer recipe designed to fill your home with warm, inviting aromas. This simple simmering pot combines cinnamon sticks, vanilla extract, and optional spices like star anise and cloves, gently infused over low heat to create a comforting ambiance perfect for any season or gathering.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4 cups water
  • 2 sticks cinnamon sticks (rolled or broken into smaller pieces, if desired)
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (or vanilla bean pods for a more intense flavor)

Optional Spices

  • Star anise, to taste
  • Cloves, to taste

Instructions

  1. Simmer the Water: Pour 4 cups of water into a saucepan and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. You should see small ripples forming and hear a soft bubbling sound, indicating the water is heated just enough to infuse the flavors.
  2. Add Cinnamon Sticks: Place the cinnamon sticks into the simmering water, allowing them to float and begin infusing their warm, spicy aroma. Stir gently with a wooden spoon to distribute flavors.
  3. Add Vanilla Extract: Stir in 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract, observing how it swirls through the water, releasing a sweet and fragrant scent. Continue simmering gently to meld the flavors harmoniously.
  4. Enhance with Optional Spices: If you prefer, add additional spices like star anise or cloves for greater warmth and complexity. Stir gently to evenly distribute these spices within the simmering liquid.
  5. Maintain a Gentle Simmer: Reduce the heat to low to keep the mixture at a gentle simmer without boiling vigorously. Let it simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, filling the room with seductive, comforting aromas.
  6. Monitor Water Level: Check occasionally to ensure the water does not reduce too much. Add more water as needed to prevent the mixture from drying out during the simmering process.
  7. Finish and Remove Spices: Once the mixture is fragrant and the flavors are well infused, turn off the heat. Remove the cinnamon sticks and any added whole spices, if desired, to avoid over-extraction or bitterness.
  8. Optional Aroma Boost: For an extra aromatic lift, add a splash of vanilla extract or vanilla oil to the warm mixture just before serving.
  9. Serve and Enjoy: Pour the warm, fragrant simmering mixture into a bowl or mug to enjoy as a natural home fragrance. It can also be lightly splashed around your home to create a soothing, cozy atmosphere.
  10. Relax and Savor: Breathe in the soothing scent as it gently fills your space, evoking feelings of warmth, comfort, and nostalgia.

Notes

  • This simmer pot is primarily intended for aromatic use rather than consumption.
  • You can adjust the intensity by varying the amounts of cinnamon and vanilla.
  • Add water as needed during simmering to prevent drying out.
  • Use vanilla bean pods for a more potent vanilla aroma instead of extract.
  • Suitable for creating a natural fragrance without chemical scents.

Keywords: vanilla cinnamon simmer, simmer pot, home fragrance, stovetop aroma, cinnamon sticks, vanilla extract