The secret to making your home smell like fall (2024)

I have a tip to share with you--a simple little secret that you'll love.

You know what I mean when I say "the smell of autumn," don't you? Sort of a combination of crisp apples and spiced cider and pumpkin bread baking in the oven. Mmmm. Well, there's a super-simple way to achieve it using ingredients you probably have in your pantry right now. Here's what you'll need:

Simply cut an apple (any variety) into quarters. Put the apple pieces in a small pan. Fill the pan with water, then add some cinnamon sticks and whole cloves. Sprinkle in a little ground cinnamon if you want. Now here's the secret: Add a teaspoon or more of vanilla extract. Simmer on the stovetop, being careful not to let the water boil away. Hint: spray the pan with non-stick cooking spray before adding the ingredients. That will make the pan much easier to wash (and will make a huge difference just in case you accidentally let the mixture boil for too long).

I know vanilla extract is rather expensive, but you don't have use a lot--and you'll be amazed at the difference it makes! Your house will smell delicious. One warning: your family will probably come in and say "What are you baking?" because it will certainly smell as if you've got apple pie or cinnamon rolls in the oven.

And here's a little tip: next time you're at a thrift store, pick up a little pan. Use that for simmering your potpourri instead of one of your good pots. That way, you can keep it on the stove and just keep replenishing the water and spices as needed. Do be careful not to let the mixture boil dry--that would stink up your home instead of making your home smell like apple pie.