Pumpkin Pie Spice Recipe

Run out of pumpkin pie spice? No problem! You can make this aromatic spice mix at home with just a few simple ingredients!

Ready to embrace the cozy flavors of fall but found yourself with an empty jar of pumpkin pie spice? Not to worry! Making your own pumpkin pie spice is a breeze, and it’s a great solution for those moments when you run out or can’t find it at the grocery store. Plus, making your own spice blend allows you to customize the flavors to your liking, ensuring the perfect balance of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and more. We’ll show you just how simple it is to whip up this essential autumn seasoning and also give you some of our favorite recipes that use this aromatic blend. So, grab your spice jars and get ready to sprinkle some homemade warmth into your favorite fall recipes.

What is in Pumpkin Pie Spice

Pumpkin pie spice consists of just 5 easy ingredients! These individual ingredients are much easier to find in stores than actual pumpkin pie spice and chances are, you have them readily available in your pantry. Here’s what you need:

• ground cinnamon
• ground ginger
• nutmeg
• ground cloves
• ground allspice

Some store-bought pumpkin spice blends include mace or black pepper (for spice) and cardamom (for a floral flavor), but we have found these just aren’t needed. We have found that this homemade spice blend is perfect as-is. Feel fresh to experiment with these other spices and flavors if you would like!

Pumpkin Pie Spice Substitute

This homemade blend isn’t really a substitution as much as it is an actual recipe for homemade pumpkin pie spice. It’s the same thing. I just think that this homemade spice mix recipe is better than the store-bought variety so if anything, if you run out of your homemade blend you can use the store-bought blend as a substitute! When a recipe calls for pumpkin pie spice, this blend can be used at a 1:1 ratio. Try it in all your fall baking recipes!

Benefits of Making Your Own Spice Mix

1. Customization: Creating your spice blend allows you to adjust the ratios of individual spices to suit your taste preferences. Love the taste of cinnamon? Add a little extra!
2. Cost-Effective: Buying individual spices and mixing them at home can be more cost-effective than purchasing pre-made spice blends.
3. No Additives: When you make your own spice blend, you have control over the ingredients. You can ensure there are no additives, preservatives, or artificial flavors.
4. Versatility: Pumpkin pie spice isn’t just for pies; it can be used in various recipes, from baked goods to beverages. By making your own, you can experiment with different dishes.
5. Reduced Waste: You can make spice blends in small batches to reduce waste. Plus, you won’t have to worry about the blend losing its flavor over time.
6. Health Benefits: Many of the ingredients in pumpkin pie spice, such as cinnamon and ginger, offer potential health benefits. By making your own blend, you can use high-quality spices for maximum health advantages.

Ways to Use Pumpkin Pie Spice

Pumpkin pie spice is a versatile seasoning that can add warmth and depth to a wide range of fall-inspired dishes. Here are some popular ways to use this spice mix:

• Pumpkin Pie: Of course, the classic use is in pumpkin pies. It’s the key spice blend that gives this iconic dessert its signature flavor.
• Baked Goods: Pumpkin pie spice is perfect for all sorts of baked goods. Use it in pumpkin muffins, scones, pumpkin cookies, coffee cakes, sheet cakes, and bread for a delightful autumnal twist.
• Cocoa and Pumpkin Spice Steamers: Add a little of the mix to your hot cocoa mix or into a pumpkin steamer. Sprinkle a pinch over the top for a cozy, spiced flavor.
• Oatmeal: Stirring pumpkin spice into your morning oatmeal can make a comforting and aromatic breakfast.
• Pancakes and Waffles: Incorporate the spice blend into pancake or waffle batter for a fall-flavored breakfast.
• Pumpkin Seeds: Sprinkle over pumpkin seeds to add an aromatic fall flavor. Try it with our sweet and savory pumpkin seeds!
• Roasted Vegetables: Use a pinch of the spice blend when roasting vegetables like sweet potatoes, butternut squash, or carrots for a unique flavor profile.
• Ice Cream: Make your own pumpkin pie spice ice cream by adding the blend to vanilla ice cream or a custard base.
• Whipped Cream: Whip into homemade whipped cream to serve on top of pies, hot cocoa, or desserts.
• Pumpkin Butter: Combine pumpkin puree with pumpkin spice and a few other ingredients to make a delicious, spreadable pumpkin butter that will take your baked goods to the next level.
• Pumpkin Syrup: Create a pumpkin spice syrup by simmering sugar, water, and the spice blend. Use it to sweeten beverages or drizzle over pancakes.
• Trail Mix: Make a fall-inspired trail mix by tossing nuts, dried fruit, and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice together.
• Candles and Potpourri: Outside of the kitchen, you can use this spice blend to create scented candles or potpourri for a cozy atmosphere.

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Tips for Making Pumpkin Pie Spice

• Use Fresh Spices: Use fresh spices for the best flavor. Check the expiration dates on your spices before blending.
• Grate Nutmeg: Grate whole nutmeg for a fresher and more vibrant flavor than pre-ground nutmeg.
• Quality Matters: Choose high-quality spices. You’ll notice the difference in taste.
• Mix Thoroughly: Blend or stir the spices thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
• Storage: Store your homemade pumpkin pie spice in an airtight container, away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. A glass jar with a tight-fitting lid works well.
• Label and Date: Always label your container with the date of preparation. Spice blends lose potency over time, so it’s essential to know when it was made.
• Shake Before Use: Spices can settle over time, so give your container a good shake before using the blend to ensure consistency.
• Replace Annually: While spices don’t “expire” like perishable foods, they do lose their potency. We like to make a fresh batch annually for maximum freshness in our recipes.
• Customize: Don’t hesitate to customize your blend by adding a pinch of mace, black pepper, cardamom, or even a little vanilla powder for a unique twist.

How to Make Pumpkin Pie Spice