Winter Candle Scents Ranked & Reviewed
Let’s be honest: winter isn’t really winter until your house smells like cinnamon, pine, or something that makes your guests say, “What IS that amazing smell?” (while secretly planning to copy you).
If you’re like me, you’ve probably got a candle stash that could rival a small boutique. But not all winter candles are created equal. Some are pure magic, and others… well, let’s just say they belong in the back of the cabinet, next to that one holiday mug you never use.
So I’ve done the hard work (you know, sniffing 37 candles—rough life, I know) and rounded up the best winter candle scents, ranked and reviewed. Oh, and yes—I’ve linked my faves through fragrance affiliates so you can snag the winners without leaving your couch. You’re welcome 😉
1. Frasier Fir by Thymes
Smells Like:
A fresh-cut Christmas tree with a side of winter air and grown-up nostalgia.
Why It’s Ranked #1:
This is the OG holiday scent. It smells expensive, cozy, and exactly how you want your living room to feel in December.
Notes: Siberian fir, cedarwood, sandalwood
Vibe: Cozy cabin in Vermont
Throw: Strong (like, fill-the-whole-house strong)
My Take: If I could bottle Christmas morning, it would smell like this. I light it every time my in-laws come over. Makes me seem like I have my life together. 10/10 recommend.
2. Balsam & Cedar by Yankee Candle
Smells Like:
A traditional Christmas wreath got a glow-up.
Why It’s a Close Second:
Classic, festive, and slightly sweeter than Frasier Fir. It’s been around forever for a reason.
Notes: Pine balsam, cedarwood, juniper berry
Vibe: Nostalgic holiday movie marathon
Throw: Medium to strong
My Take: This one screams “holiday tradition.” I light it while wrapping gifts with a Hallmark movie in the background. Bonus points for the massive jar that lasts forever.
3. Spiced Gingerbread by Homesick
Smells Like:
A snowball fight followed by hot cocoa.
Why It’s Unique:
Fresh and playful, without being too sweet or soapy.
Notes: Peppermint, vanilla, toasted marshmallow
Vibe: Whimsical and modern
Throw: Light to medium
My Take: It’s like a grown-up peppermint latte with a cozy twist. Not overpowering, but perfect for chill evenings. And the packaging? Chef’s kiss.
4. Snow Day by Otherland
Smells Like:
A snowball fight followed by hot cocoa.
Why It’s Unique:
Fresh and playful, without being too sweet or soapy.
Notes: Peppermint, vanilla, toasted marshmallow
Vibe: Whimsical and modern
Throw: Light to medium
My Take: It’s like a grown-up peppermint latte with a cozy twist. Not overpowering, but perfect for chill evenings. And the packaging? Chef’s kiss.
5. Feu de Bois by Diptyque
Smells Like:
A high-end fireplace you can’t afford (but can definitely fake).
Why It’s Fancy AF:
This one’s for the minimalist who still wants to feel like they live in a chalet.
Notes: Burning wood, smoky embers
Vibe: Sophisticated, boujee winter cabin
Throw: Subtle but persistent
My Take: It’s expensive, and it smells like it. It doesn’t scream “holiday” but whispers “I’m rich and wear cashmere.” Love that for us.
6. Hot Cocoa & Cream by Bath & Body Works
Smells Like:
A mug of hot chocolate made with way too much whipped cream.
Why It’s Comfort in a Jar:
Sweet, nostalgic, and kind of addictive.
Notes: Milk chocolate, vanilla, steamed milk
Vibe: Pajamas all day, fuzzy socks, comfort food
Throw: Strong (like, sugar rush level)
My Take: Is it a little much? Maybe. But on those freezing gray days? Total mood booster. Light this, grab a blanket, and pretend you’re snowed in.
7. Holiday by Nest New York
Smells Like:
Cranberry, clove, and cinnamon had a very expensive baby.
Why It’s High on the List:
It’s festive without being too in-your-face.
Notes: Mandarin orange, pomegranate, clove
Vibe: Elegant holiday party with a champagne toast
Throw: Medium to strong
My Take: If you’re hosting guests and want them to think you hired a decorator, light this. It’s polished and refined—like your living room wishes it could be.
8. Frosted Cranberry by Bath & Body Works
Smells Like:
Fruity freshness with a touch of sparkle.
Why It’s Fun:
More tart than sweet, and surprisingly versatile.
Notes: Cranberry, snow-kissed citrus, red apple
Vibe: Festive brunch with your besties
Throw: Medium
My Take: It’s youthful, bright, and a great daytime scent. I light it while decorating or doing holiday crafts. Plus, it’s usually on sale (thank you, BBW).
9. Woodsmoke by Boy Smells
Smells Like:
A bonfire in the middle of a snowy forest.
Why It’s an Underrated Gem:
Masculine, grounding, and oddly comforting.
Notes: Incense, cedar, smoke
Vibe: Winter date night, but make it cozy
Throw: Medium
My Take: It’s definitely a mood. Not everyone’s cup of tea, but if you like more woodsy, smoky notes, you’ll be obsessed. My boyfriend “borrowed” mine and never gave it back. Rude.
10. Cypress & Snow by Brooklyn Candle Studio
Smells Like:
Clean forest air with a hint of sweetness.
Why It’s Soothing:
Light, calming, and perfect for background ambiance.
Notes: Cypress, mint, eucalyptus
Vibe: Spa day meets snowy trail walk
Throw: Light
My Take: It’s subtle and fresh—ideal when you want a scent but nothing too strong. I keep it in the bathroom and pretend I live in a luxury lodge.
Final Thoughts
There you go—the best winter candle scents, ranked and reviewed with my brutally honest (and slightly scent-obsessed) opinions.
So, what did we learn? That scent is subjective. That expensive doesn’t always mean better. And that yes, one person canown 23 holiday candles and still need more. No judgment.
If you’re in the mood to treat yourself or just want your place to smell like a holiday dream, check out the fragrance affiliate links I’ve dropped. You’ll find the exact candles I mentioned—and maybe a few new obsessions. FYI, some of them sell out fast in winter, so don’t wait.
Now go forth, light it up, and let your home smell like actual joy. 🙂