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HOW TO CREATE TALLOW CANDELS WITH ESSENTIAL OILS

Tallow, a natural byproduct of rendering animal fat, offers a clean, long-lasting burn and a unique aesthetic. By infusing these candles with your favorite essential oils, you can create personalized fragrances that promote relaxation, focus, or simply enhance your ambiance. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the simple steps of creating your own tallow candles, from selecting the right materials to blending essential oils.

How to make tallow candles with essential oils

Candles have a unique way of transforming any space into a relaxing haven. Whether I’m preparing a meal, working at my computer, or indulging in a spa day at home, I love lighting a candle to set the mood.

There’s just something about the calming atmosphere candles create – they’re a staple in my home. And even during the seasons when I don’t burn them as often, they’re always handy in case of a power outage.

Living naturally often means letting go of your favorite commercial candles. But with this easy tallow candle recipe with essential oils, you can make your own toxin-free candles at home! It’s simpler than you think.

Ready to create your own chemical-free candles? Keep reading to learn how…

What are tallow candles?

Tallow candles are made from tallow, an age-old ingredient used in candle-making for thousands of years. Unlike modern commercial candles, which can release harmful toxins into the air, tallow candles provide a healthier, natural alternative.

Many people aren’t aware, but commercial candles often contain toxic chemicals that, when burned, release harmful fumes into the air, affecting the health of you and your family (source). To maintain a chemical-free home, I choose to use only pure, high-quality candles made from tallow—one of my favorite ingredients.

Tips in making tallow candles with essential oils

Making candles doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With this simple recipe, you can easily create dozens of tallow candles in just a few minutes.

Here are some helpful tips for making the best tallow candles:

  • Scenting your candles: Adding fragrance is totally up to you. If you’re making candles purely for decoration or light, you may want to skip fragrances altogether. If you’d like to add a scent, be sure to use only pure, natural essential oils. I recommend essential oils from trusted brands like Plant Therapy for the best quality.
  • Lubricating your molds: Before pouring in the tallow, remember to lubricate the candle molds with an oil such as coconut or olive oil. This ensures the candles come out smoothly once they’re set.
  • Choosing the right wick: It’s important to choose the right wick for your candles. Look for organic cotton wicks that are coated with beeswax, if possible. Some commercial wicks contain chemicals, so be mindful of what you use. My personal favorite are beeswax-coated organic cotton wicks.
  • Extra candles for gifting: I always make a few extra candles to have on hand as last-minute gifts. They’re perfect for hostess gifts or adding to a holiday gift basket.

Now that you’ve got my top tips, keep reading for step-by-step instructions to make your own tallow candles!

How to make tallow candles with essential oils

Making tallow candles with essential oils is one of my favorite activities. Not only do they help create a peaceful environment, but making them is also a fun and easy craft that you can complete in just an afternoon. Here’s how you can make your own:

INGREDIENTS:

  • Grass-fed beef tallow (from leaf fat; soft tallow from trim fat won’t be hard enough)
  • Essential oils (60 drops per cup of tallow)
  • Coconut oil or olive oil (to help with pouring consistency)
  • Wicks (cotton wicks are a great choice)
  • Glass jar or candle mold (for shaping your candles)

GLASS JAR CANDLE INSTRUCTIONS:

  • Melt the tallow: Gently heat the pure tallow in a saucepan until it turns into a liquid. Be sure to do this on low heat to avoid burning it.
  • Cool the tallow: Allow the melted tallow to cool down a bit, but don’t let it solidify yet.
  • Add essential oils: Once the tallow has cooled slightly, add 60 drops of essential oils per cup of tallow. Stir well to ensure the oils are fully mixed in.
  • Prepare the wick: Secure the wick by placing a clothespin on the top of the glass jar, letting the wick hang down into the center of the jar.
  • Pour the tallow mixture: Carefully pour the tallow mixture into the glass jar, making sure not to disturb the wick. Leave some space at the top of the jar.
  • Let it cool: Allow the candle to set and cool at room temperature for several hours or overnight.
  • Trim the wick: Once the candle has fully solidified, trim the wick to about 1/4 inch above the surface of the tallow.
  • Light and enjoy: Your candle is now ready to be lit and enjoyed!

PILLAR JAR CANDLE INSTRUCTIONS:

  • Lubricate the mold: Use coconut or olive oil to lightly lubricate the inside of the candle mold. This will help you remove the candle once it’s solidified.
  • Thread the wick: String the wick through the center of the candle mold, leaving extra length to trim later. Use a clothespin to hold the wick upright at the top of the mold.
  • Leave space at the tip: When pouring the tallow, leave some space at the tip of the mold to allow room for any expansion.
  • Pour the tallow mixture: Pour the liquid tallow into the mold, filling it up to your desired height.
  • Let it set: Allow the candle to cool and solidify at room temperature.
  • Remove the candle: Once the candle is completely solid, carefully remove it from the mold. Trim the wick to your desired length.
  • Light and enjoy: Your pillar candle is ready to be lit and will provide a cozy, relaxing atmosphere.

What supplies do you need for candle making?

Surprisingly enough, making your own tallow candles doesn’t require a lot of equipment. When using tallow, you can easily melt it on your stove and start crafting right away. Here’s a quick list of the supplies you’ll need:

SUPPLIES FOR TALLOW CANDLES

  • Glass jars (Make sure they are thick, like mason jars, to prevent the glass from shattering due to heat)
  • Natural wick (Cotton or beeswax-coated wicks are great)
  • Essential oils (Choose your favorite natural oils to scent the candle)
  • Clothespin (To hold the wick in place while the candle sets)
  • Candle mold (If you’re making pillar candles, here’s a great option for that)

MELTING THE TALLOW

The most time-consuming part of the entire candle-making process is melting the tallow. You’ll want to heat it gently on the stove over low heat, as it can take some time to fully melt, depending on the amount you’re using. But don’t worry — once it’s melted, the rest of the process is quick and easy!

Keep reading to learn more about the step-by-step process for melting tallow and making your own candles!

How long does it take to melt tallow?

Tallow is the hard fat found around the organs of animals, and it has countless uses, making it one of my favorite ingredients for a natural living lifestyle. Beyond making candles, you can use tallow in cooking, such as for frying or baking pie crusts, or even for crafting projects like the homemade candles featured in this article.

If you want to make your own tallow, it’s easy to render it using just a crock pot! Rendering tallow at home typically takes several hours, depending on how much you’re melting. For example, it takes about 5-6 hours to fully melt around 4 quarts of tallow. This method is simple and efficient, and it ensures you’re getting pure, high-quality tallow for all your DIY projects.

How much tallow should you melt?

When it comes to rendering tallow, I like to melt as much as I can — or as much as my crock pot will hold. That way, I can make my candles in batches and have some extra tallow for other projects or even gifts.

Tallow is incredibly versatile, and there are so many ways to use it beyond making candles. Here are a few ideas for utilizing your tallow:

  • Make skincare products: Tallow is fantastic for creating nourishing lotions, balms, and soaps. (Check out this complete guide to tallow skincare for more details.)
  • Season your cast iron skillets: Use tallow to season your cast iron cookware, giving it a non-stick surface and helping it last longer.
  • Cook with it: Tallow has a high smoke point, making it great for frying, sautéing, or baking.
  • Condition leather: Tallow works wonders as a leather conditioner, keeping your leather goods supple and protected.

Honestly, if I had to choose one thing to take with me to a deserted island, tallow would definitely be on the list. It’s just that useful!

What are the best essential oils to add in a tallow candle?

One of the things I truly love about candles is how the right scent can completely transform the atmosphere of a room. Here are a few of my favorite scents for my homemade candles:

  • Lavender: A calming and soothing fragrance, perfect for relaxation.
  • Chamomile: A gentle, floral aroma that creates a peaceful, comforting environment.
  • Frankincense: A rich, resinous scent that adds depth and warmth, ideal for meditation or grounding.
  • Vetiver: Earthy and grounding, this scent is great for creating a serene and tranquil space.
  • Tranquil Synergy: A calming blend of essential oils that promotes relaxation and peace.
  • Relax Synergy: A comforting mix that soothes the mind and body, perfect for unwinding.

It’s also crucial to highlight the importance of using pure essential oils. Personally, I only use Plant Therapy essential oils in my home. They are known for their high-quality oils, sourced from the best plants. When it comes to candles, you want to ensure you’re using oils that are free from toxic chemicals, as many commercial oils can contain harmful substances. By choosing pure oils, you’ll get the best scent possible and avoid introducing any harmful chemicals into your home. This will not only improve the scent of your candles but also make your environment healthier and safer.

How long do tallow candles last?

The longevity of your homemade tallow candles depends on factors like the amount of tallow used, the wick type, and the candle size. To ensure your candles last as long as possible, here are a few tips:

  • Candle Size: Choose a larger container for your candles to increase their burn time. A bigger candle will take longer to fully melt, meaning it will last for several uses.
  • Wick Type: Opt for the right wick for your candle’s size. A wick that’s too small may burn too quickly, while a wick that’s too large may cause the candle to burn too fast and unevenly. Proper wick selection ensures an even, long-lasting burn.

By making sure your candle is sized appropriately and using the right wick, you can enjoy your homemade tallow candles for many months to come.

How to store tallow candles properly?

To ensure your tallow candles last as long as possible, store them in a cool, dry place away from heat and direct sunlight. A basement is an ideal location due to its consistent, cool temperature. If you don’t have a basement, a low shelf in your closet works well too.

Proper storage will help preserve the quality of the tallow and the essential oils, allowing your candles to last for several years. Just make sure they are kept in a stable, cool environment to prevent any melting or degradation over time.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, making your own tallow candles with essential oils is a rewarding and eco-friendly way to enjoy a natural, toxin-free alternative to commercial candles. Not only do they provide a clean, long-lasting burn, but you can also customize the scent to suit your mood or needs. Whether you’re looking to add a relaxing fragrance to your home, create a unique gift, or have a backup for power outages, homemade tallow candles are an excellent addition to your home. With just a few simple ingredients and some creativity, you can enjoy a sustainable, personal touch to your candle collection.

SLOW COOKER PULLED PORK (OVEN ROASTED OPTION)

Here’s the ultimate crockpot pulled pork recipe! With minimal effort, your slow cooker will transform pork into incredibly tender, melt-in-your-mouth goodness. This recipe is super easy, produces amazing results, and makes it simple to serve up a crowd-pleasing meal in no time. I’ve also included instructions for making oven-roasted pulled pork and a fantastic smoked pulled pork recipe. And of course, don’t forget the BBQ sauce!

THE BEST PORK FOR PULLED PORK

For the best pulled pork, go for a front shoulder cut of pork. Picture the shoulder area near a pig’s forelegs. The upper part of the shoulder is called Pork Butt or Boston Butt, while the lower section is known as Pork Shoulder or Picnic Roast. When shopping, look for any of these labels for the ideal cut. Pork Butt is often preferred due to its slightly higher fat marbling, which means more flavor. However, Picnic Pork Shoulder is also a great choice.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

  • Large Skillet: I recommend using a cast iron skillet!
  • Slow Cooker: I use and recommend this slow cooker!

INGREDIENTS

  • Pork: 5-7 pounds of pork butt or pork shoulder, fat cap left on
  • Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons for rubbing on the meat
  • Liquid Smoke: 1 teaspoon, optional, for rubbing on the meat
  • Vegetable Oil: 2 tablespoons for searing (more as needed)

For the Rub/Marinade

  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt (or 2.5 teaspoons if using table salt)
  • 2 teaspoons black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 2 teaspoons cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
  • 1/3 cup packed brown sugar

To Serve

  • Barbecue sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • Brioche hamburger buns (if making sandwiches)
  • Softened butter
  • Coleslaw (I love this herby recipe!)

INSTRUCTIONS

Slow Cooker Instructions

  • Choose Your Pork: A pork shoulder is great, but a pork butt (also known as Boston Butt) is even better. Both cuts contain plenty of fat and connective tissue, essential for tender, juicy pulled pork. If available, choose a bone-in cut for extra flavor, though boneless works as well. Look for a well-marbled piece with white fat.
  • Marinate with Spice Rub: In a small bowl, mix together 1 tablespoon kosher salt, 2 teaspoons black pepper, 1 tablespoon paprika, 2 teaspoons garlic powder, 2 teaspoons onion powder, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper, 2 teaspoons cumin, 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder, and 1/3 cup packed brown sugar. Reserve 3 tablespoons of this mixture in a ziplock bag or covered bowl for later use.
  • Prepare the Pork: For faster cooking, cut the pork in half to increase the surface area for browning and reduce the cooking time to about 6-7 hours in the slow cooker (cooking the whole piece will take about 8-10 hours). Pat the pork dry with paper towels, then rub 3 tablespoons of olive oil over the meat, ensuring it’s well coated. If using, drizzle 1 teaspoon of liquid smoke and massage it in.
  • Rub the Spice Mixture: Rub the spice mixture (excluding the reserved 3 tablespoons) all over the pork, getting into every nook and cranny. Place the pork in a large ziplock bag and seal. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours, or up to 48 hours.
  • Sear the Pork: Remove the pork from the bag and pat it dry if wet. Rub the remaining spice mixture into the meat. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat for at least 3 minutes. Add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and swirl to coat the pan. Once the oil shimmers, add the pork and sear for about 2 minutes until well browned. Use tongs to flip the pork and sear all sides. Add more oil as necessary.
  • Slow Cook the Pork: Transfer the seared pork to your dry slow cooker. Cover and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours if cut in half or 8-10 hours if left whole. Avoid overcooking; aim for an internal temperature of 195-200°F. Start checking with a meat thermometer at the lowest recommended time, as overcooking can dry it out.
  • Shred the Pork: Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and let it rest on a cutting board for about 5 minutes, tented with foil. Shred the pork using two forks; it should fall apart easily. Discard any gristle, but retain some fat to mix in with the meat for flavor.
  • Combine and Serve: Add the shredded pork back into the slow cooker (or your serving dish) and toss it with the cooking juices. Mix in 1-2 cups of BBQ sauce or serve it on the side. Enjoy it warm on sandwiches, atop salads, or however you prefer!

Oven Pulled Pork Instructions

  • Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F and let it heat for at least 20 minutes.
  • Prepare the Pork: Cut the pork butt or shoulder into 3 equal pieces to speed up cooking and enhance browning. Follow the same preparation steps as above: pat dry, rub with 3 tablespoons olive oil and 1 teaspoon liquid smoke (optional), and then rub with the reserved spice mixture. Marinate for 6 to 48 hours in the refrigerator.
  • Rest and Prepare for Cooking: Allow the pork to sit at room temperature for about an hour before cooking for more even results.
  • Set Up for Roasting: Place an oven-safe wire rack over a rimmed baking sheet and spray it with nonstick spray. Add 1.5 cups of water to the bottom of the pan to create a humid environment.
  • Roast the Pork: Remove the pork from the marinade and rub each piece with the remaining spice rub. Arrange the pork on the rack, ensuring they don’t touch. Roast at 425°F for 30 minutes to sear the edges, then reduce the temperature to 300°F. Open the oven door briefly to cool it down. Roast for an additional 3-5 hours, adding water as necessary to the pan.
  • Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the pork should reach 195-200°F. Do not exceed 200°F, as the temperature will continue to rise after removing it from the oven.
  • Shred and Serve: Let the pork rest for 15-20 minutes, tented with foil. Shred it using two forks, retaining some fat for flavor.
  • Make the Sandwich: For an incredible pulled pork sandwich, butter both sides of a brioche bun. In a pan over medium heat, toast the buns for 2-4 minutes until golden. Fill with shredded pork, add more BBQ sauce if desired, and top with a generous amount of herby coleslaw. Press down with the top bun and enjoy!

How to Shred Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

  • Rest the Meat: Once the cooking time is up, carefully transfer the pork to a cutting board and let it rest for about 10-20 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.
  • Shred the Pork: After resting, it’s time to shred the pork. Using two large forks, begin pulling the meat apart. If you’ve cooked it properly, it should fall apart effortlessly with just a gentle tug. Enjoy the satisfying process of shredding!

STORAGE

  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4-5 days.
  • Pulled pork freezes well; seal in a ziplock bag (with or without BBQ sauce) and freeze for 4-6 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in the microwave or in a covered tin foil pan sprinkled with water, baking at 300°F for 20-40 minutes, depending on the amount.