As the crisp air of fall begins to settle in, there’s nothing quite like the warm, comforting aroma of Pumpkin Pie Spice to welcome the cozy spirit of the season. While store-bought versions are convenient, there’s something truly special about creating your own blend at home. This homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice recipe is a must-have in your spice cabinet, and I’m thrilled to share it with you!
Jump to RecipeThis homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice mix is all about balance and freshness. By mixing your own spices, you control the flavor, ensuring just the right amount of warmth from cinnamon, the perfect hint of spice from cloves, and the subtle sweetness of nutmeg. Plus, homemade blends are fresher than anything you’ll find on the store shelves, which means your pumpkin pies, lattes, and fall treats will taste even more vibrant and delicious.
You’ll love this recipe (if I can even call it a recipe) because it’s incredibly easy to make and versatile enough to use in a variety of dishes. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this Pumpkin Pie Spice blend will become your go-to ingredient for all your autumn-inspired creations.
Pumpkin Pie Spice Ingredients
Head to your spice cabinet to gather the following spices:
- Ground Cinnamon: Cinnamon is the star of the Pumpkin Pie Spice blend, providing that familiar warm, sweet, and slightly spicy flavor that defines so many fall treats. In this blend, cinnamon lays the foundation, creating an inviting base that complements the other spices beautifully.
- Ground Ginger: Ginger adds a touch of spice and warmth to the blend, with its slightly peppery and sweet notes. It brings a subtle zing that enhances the depth of flavor, balancing the sweetness of cinnamon with a bit of a kick. Ground ginger is essential for giving your Pumpkin Pie Spice that extra layer of complexity that makes it perfect for both sweet and savory dishes.
- Ground Nutmeg: Nutmeg introduces a rich, nutty, and slightly sweet flavor to the mix, with a hint of earthiness that rounds out the spice blend. It’s known for its ability to add a cozy warmth to baked goods, adding depth to the spice profile.
- Ground Allspice: Allspice, despite its name, is a single spice with a flavor that mimics a combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. It adds a mild spiciness with a touch of sweetness and warmth, enhancing the overall complexity of the blend. Allspice ties the other spices together, creating a harmonious flavor that’s essential for capturing the essence of Pumpkin Pie Spice.
- Ground Cloves: Cloves are the most potent spice in this blend, bringing a strong, pungent flavor with hints of sweetness and bitterness. Just a small amount of ground cloves adds a deep, intense warmth that elevates the spice mix to a whole new level. Their bold, aromatic presence is what gives the Pumpkin Pie Spice that distinctive, lingering spiciness that makes fall treats so irresistible.
How to Make Pumpkin Pie Spice
- Combine Spices: In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients: cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves.
- Mix Well: Stir the spices together until they are thoroughly mixed.
- Store: Transfer the spice blend to an airtight container or spice jar. Store it in a cool, dry place.
How Long Can I Store Pumpkin Pie Spice?
Homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice can be stored for up to 1 to 2 years, but for the best flavor, it’s recommended to use it within 6 to 12 months.
To maximize its shelf life, store the spice blend in an airtight container in a cool, dark place, like a pantry or spice cabinet, away from direct sunlight and heat. Over time, the spices will gradually lose their potency, so it’s a good idea to give the blend a quick sniff or taste test before using it in your recipes. If the aroma is faint or the flavor is weak, it may be time to make a fresh batch.
How Can I Use Pumpkin Pie Spice?
Pumpkin pie spice is incredibly versatile and can be used in a wide range of sweet and savory dishes to add a warm, cozy flavor. Here are some delicious ways to incorporate it into your cooking and baking:
Baked Goods
- Pumpkin Pie: The classic use! Add it to your pumpkin pie filling for that quintessential fall flavor.
- Muffins and Quick Breads: Stir Pumpkin Pie Spice into the batter for pumpkin muffins, banana bread, or any other quick bread recipe.
- Cookies: Mix it into cookie dough for snickerdoodles, gingerbread cookies, or even oatmeal cookies for a seasonal twist.
- Cakes: Add a teaspoon or two to spice cakes, bundt cakes, or pound cakes.
Breakfast Dishes
- Pancakes and Waffles: Sprinkle Pumpkin Pie Spice into your pancake or waffle batter for a flavorful morning treat.
- Oatmeal: Stir a pinch into your morning oatmeal along with some brown sugar or maple syrup.
- French Toast: Mix the spice into your egg batter before dipping the bread for French toast.
Beverages
- Lattes: Make your own pumpkin spice latte by adding a dash to your coffee or espresso, along with steamed milk and sweetener.
- Smoothies: Blend it into smoothies, especially those with pumpkin, banana, or apple for a fall-inspired drink.
- Hot Chocolate: Stir a little Pumpkin Pie Spice into hot chocolate for a warming twist.
Pumpkin Pie Spice Recipe
Equipment
- Measuring Spoons
- Container with lid
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons ground nutmeg
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground clover
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
Instructions
- Combine Spices: In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients: cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves.
- Mix Well: Stir the spices together until they are thoroughly mixed.
- Store: Transfer the spice blend to an airtight container or spice jar. Store it in a cool, dry place.
For more delicious brunch recipes, visit the recipes tab. Please comment below with any feedback you may have, and don’t forget to share your creations with me on social media – I’d love to see how you use your homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice!
Bon appétit and happy brunching!