Layer Sliced Oranges Over Cranberries In A Crockpot And Heat Up For Fragrant Autumn Potpourri

This time of year is bittersweet. Summer and all the fun that goes along with it is coming to a close, but sweater weather is approaching.

As sad as it may be to feel the warmth dwindling in the air, fall being around the corner is a good consolation prize.

The smell of sunscreen and fresh cut grass will soon turn into pumpkin spice and the indescribable smell of leaves crunching under your feet.

While all the leaves and smells are changing outside, you might want to take a moment to embrace the transition inside your home too.

This crock pot potpourri recipe is easy enough for a small child to make, and smells good enough to be sold as high end aroma therapy. 

With just 5 ingredients and a crock pot, you can transform your home into a fall wonderland.

Learn how to do it yourself by following the instructions below:

Supplies:

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Janine Ngai for LittleThings

You will need the following supplies and ingredients for your crock pot potpourri:

  • 1 orange
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 1/4 tsp ground cloves
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1 cup fresh cranberries
  • Crock Pot

Step 1: Slice Oranges

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Janine Ngai for LittleThings

The most labor-intensive step of this process is simply cutting the oranges.

Slice them into narrow slice so they will be cooked evenly and will be easy to layer. Set slices aside.

Step 2: Line Crock Pot With Half The Cranberries

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Janine Ngai for LittleThings

Next, take half of the cranberries and pour them into the bottom on the crock pot so it's covered.

Step 3: Layer Sliced Oranges On Top

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Janine Ngai for LittleThings

Take the oranges you set aside and layer them carefully on top of the cranberries.

Make sure the berries are covered completely by orange slices; you can overlap them for better coverage.

Step 4: Pour In Rest Of Cranberries And Spices

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Janine Ngai for LittleThings

Next, take the rest of the cranberries and place them on top of the orange layer.

Once the cranberries are in, it's time to sprinkle in the cinnamon sticks, cloves, and nutmeg.

Step 5: Cover Ingredients With Water

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Janine Ngai for LittleThings

Now, carefully pour in about 2 inches of water, or enough to cover the ingredients in the crock pot.

You want the ingredients to be saturated, but not swimming in the water.

Step 6: Cook

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Janine Ngai for LittleThings

Now it's time to sit back, relax, and enjoy the smell of your potpourri brewing.

Place the lid on the pot and turn the crock pot onto warm.

Allow to brew for about two hours, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon.

Step 7: Enjoy!

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Janine Ngai for LittleThings

After two or so hours, your potpourri will most likely have filled your house with a delicious smell, and the ingredients should be dried out.

If you'd like to keep brewing, just add a little more water and continue heating.

Otherwise, you can place your dried ingredients in a decorative bowl, and find a spot in your home where the fragrant potpourri will be appreciated.

Please SHARE this easy DIY project with your friends!