It's an old fashioned thing.
A Christmas tradition from auld lang syne.
And I am in love with it right now.
I first read about clove-studded fruits in the book Little House in the Big Woods, and that little piece of literature has stayed with me for years. Laura's aunt brought one as a Christmas gift. "A large, red apple stuck full of cloves. How good it smelled! And it would not spoil, for so many cloves would keep it sound and sweet." I have always wanted to try making one of those old-world air fresheners myself, because I knew it would just be like smelling Christmas.
Finally, this year, I did it. I picked up a bottle of whole cloves and some oranges at the store over the weekend and poked them in while I watched Little Women. It only took me 5-10 minutes. I left my spicy fruit on our table and the next morning when I came downstairs I could already smell the rich, warm aroma hanging in the room. It was the best! I love this smell! I think I'm going to make it a new tradition. I keep going across the room just to have a big sniff. You have to try this. Make your home even more Christmasy cozy. Such a simple yummy Christmas craft/gift. I'm giving one to Grant to put on his desk at school.
Christmasy Clove Oranges
An old world air freshener scented by clean, bright orange oil and heady mulling spice.
Hang them on a knob, use them as a centerpiece, place on a desk, or near your favorite spot.
What you'll need: oranges, whole cloves, something pointy (a toothpick or needle- I used my meat thermometer), string or ribbon
1. If you're wanting to hang your orange or give as a gift, tie it up with string or ribbon, making a loop at the top.
2. Poke orange rind all over with your something pointy.
3. Stick cloves into pre-poked holes. Wear gloves if you want, the cloves have sharp corners.
4. Enjoy your new Christmas perfume.
6 comments:
Wow, this is a great idea! I love the smell of oranges and cloves. I wish I could add cinnamon to the mix as well! I am definitely going to make this and put it in my living room to add a little Christmas touch to the tree and candles.
@Chiara I've heard that some people roll them in cinnamon at the end! you could try that :) you'll love them!
yum! might have to put these on my saturday to-do list!
I've made these before and they are wonderful. I need to make some this year.
Just had a flashback of doing this with my grandmom love it!
These things (pomander balls) are my fav thing to do/make each holiday season, I stock up on cloves from here: http://www.bulkherbstore.com/Cloves-Whole_Organic (the 1/2 lb. bag has lasted me through 6 holiday seasons!) So glad you are discovering the sweet-smelling goodness for your own home!