Even though you wouldn't believe it by the temperatures in Tennessee right now, fall is finally here! Fall is definitely the favorite time of year of so many people (including me!).
In honor of the first day of fall, I'm sharing a few simple treats and easy decorations to welcome the season.
First, a fall simmer pot to add some of the scents of the season to your home!
1) Easy Fall Simmer Pot Recipe
When I was growing up, my mom used to always have a simmer pot on the stove with leftover orange peels, cinnamon and cloves. It always smelled so wonderful!
There's no shortage of scented products available to buy in stores. And some of them even smell good. But with all the chemicals and artificial ingredients, they may not be good for our health.
That's why a DIY simmer pot can be a great natural alternative.
Here's what you need:
- Cinnamon sticks
- Apple slices
- Orange slices
- Cloves
- Water
Fill a saucepan with water over high heat until it boils. Add the ingredients above and stir. Boil for a few minutes and then turn the heat down so the pot will simmer. There's no need for a lid because this will let all the great smells escape.
Keep an eye on your simmer pot and add water as needed. Inhale deeply and enjoy!
I've seen this idea all over the Internet, and it just looked so easy and cute, I had to try it. Apples are available in abundance right now. I got mine at Trader Joe's, only $3.99 for a big bag.
Trace around the shape of your tealight on the top of the apple. Then, carefully cut out the circle shape with a paring knife (or X-acto knife).
Finally, using a melon baller, scoop out the apple flesh inside the circle, making a hole that is large enough for the candle to fit inside.
2) DIY Apple Candle Holders
I've seen this idea all over the Internet, and it just looked so easy and cute, I had to try it. Apples are available in abundance right now. I got mine at Trader Joe's, only $3.99 for a big bag.
To do this project, you'll need apples & tealight candles. I opted for the battery operated ones because they are safer with pets (and people!).
Trace around the shape of your tealight on the top of the apple. Then, carefully cut out the circle shape with a paring knife (or X-acto knife).
Finally, using a melon baller, scoop out the apple flesh inside the circle, making a hole that is large enough for the candle to fit inside.
Pop it in, and voila! What a cute and EASY project for fall.
3) Apple Nachos - A Simple & Delicious Recipe for Fall
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| via Haute & Healthy Living |
There are tons of ideas for this simple and tasty fall party snack around the web. I found a healthier option at the great blog Haute & Healthy Living that uses almond butter, maple syrup and vanilla extract to make a caramel-like topping.
But the beauty of this type of recipe is that you can get creative and make it however you prefer!
All you need are some apples (sliced thin and soaked in lemon juice to keep them from turning brown) and whatever toppings you want to enjoy with them.
Possible toppings might include:
But the beauty of this type of recipe is that you can get creative and make it however you prefer!
All you need are some apples (sliced thin and soaked in lemon juice to keep them from turning brown) and whatever toppings you want to enjoy with them.
Possible toppings might include:
- Caramel sauce
- Chocolate sauce (or chocolate chips)
- Peanut butter chips
- Coconut
- Raisins
- Candy pieces
- Marshmallows
- Pretzels
Delicious and oh so simple to make! I hope you'll take some time this fall to really enjoy the season. Fall always seems to arrive with so much gusto, but then before we know it Thanksgiving and Christmas are upon us.
Want to really make the most of fall? Here are a few things on my fall bucket list. I hope you are inspired to make some special memories with your family this season!
Visit my Fall Pinterest board to see more great fall recipes, projects and ideas!
