Pumpkin pie spice is a delightful mixture of warming spices commonly associated with the cozy and comforting flavors of Fall. While it’s most famously used in pumpkin pie, these versatile spice blends can be used in various dishes, from baked goods to beverages.
What Is Pumpkin Pie Spice?
Pumpkin pie spice is a spice blend typically made up of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and sometimes allspice. These spices are mixed together in specific ratios to create a warm, aromatic blend that embodies the essence of autumn.
Although it is called “pumpkin pie spice,” it doesn’t actually contain any pumpkin. The blend is usually associated with pumpkin pie, but its popularity has expanded far beyond that single use.
Spices Used To Make Pumpkin Pie Spice Blend
Before we start blending, let’s look at the flavor profiles of each common spice used in pumpkin pie spice seasoning.
- Cinnamon: Sweet, warm, and woody; the dominant flavor in the blend, provids a cozy base.
- Ginger: Spicy, zesty, and slightly peppery; adds a sharp bite and warmth.
- Nutmeg: Sweet, nutty, and slightly woody; adds depth and a rich, earthy undertone.
- Cloves: Strong, pungent, and slightly sweet; offers an intense warmth and aromatic spice.
- Allspice: Warm, peppery, and slightly fruity; enhances the overall warmth with a complex flavor.
- Cardamom: Floral, citrusy, and slightly sweet; adds an aromatic and exotic note.
- Red Pepper: Pungent, sharp, and slightly woody; adds a touch of mild heat and enhances spiciness.
While the basic pumpkin pie spice blend is delicious on its own, creating your own variation can add a unique twist to your Fall recipes.
Basic Pumpkin Pie Spice Blend
If you want a classic pumpkin pie spice blend, this blend of spices is the gold standard recipe.
- 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 2 teaspoons ground nutmeg
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
How To Use: This simple blend can be used in any recipe that calls for pumpkin pie spice.
Spicy Pumpkin Pie Spice Blend
For those who enjoy a little extra heat in their spice mix, this variation adds a bit of kick with black pepper and an increased amount of ginger.
- 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 2 teaspoons ground nutmeg
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- ½ teaspoon ground red pepper
How To Use: This blend is perfect for adding a subtle spiciness to pumpkin pie, spiced nuts, or even savory dishes like roasted squash.
Sweet & Mild Pumpkin Pie Spice Blend
If you prefer a milder warm spice blend with a touch more sweetness, this variation uses more cinnamon and reduces the amount of cloves and adds my homemade vanilla sugar.
- 4 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon ground allspice
- 2 tablespoons vanilla sugar
This sweeter blend is great for desserts like pumpkin bread, pancakes, or muffins, where you want the spice to complement, rather than overpower, the other flavors.
How To Make Vanilla Sugar For Pumpkin Spice
Learn how to make your own fragrant and delicious vanilla sugar at home with this easy step-by-step guide. Perfect for adding extra flavor to your favorite baked goods or beverages.
Indulge your senses with the aromatic vanilla sugar. It’s perfect for gift-giving, and it’s so easy that even young kids can help make a special homemade gift for their teachers or family members.
Plus, I’m including free vanilla sugar sticker labels for decorating the gift jars.
Earthy Pumpkin Pie Spice Blend
This variation incorporates ground cardamom and a touch of fennel seed for an earthier flavor and a more complex, aromatic profile.
- 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 2 teaspoons ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- ½ teaspoon ground cardamon
How To Use: This unique blend works wonderfully in more sophisticated dishes like pumpkin risotto, chai tea, or even in spiced cocktails.
Storage and Shelf Life Pumpkin Pie Spice Recipe
- Storage: Store the pumpkin pie spice blend in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cupboard, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Proper storage helps preserve the flavor and potency of the spices.
- Shelf Life: When stored properly in an airtight container, your homemade pumpkin pie spice will stay fresh for up to 6 months. After this period, the spices may begin to lose their potency, resulting in a less vibrant flavor. For the best taste, try to use the blend within 3-4 months.
Pumpkin pie spice is a quintessential blend that captures the flavors of fall. Whether you stick to the classic mix or experiment with one of the variations, making your own pumpkin pie spice at home allows you to tailor the flavors to your liking.
⚖️ Need a big batch to feed a crowd? You can easily change the number of servings in the recipe card below by tapping 2x or 3x. The ingredient measurements will automatically double or triple. You can then tap print and there you have it, a recipe for a crowd.
I Want To Answer Your Questions & Hear Your Comments
Do you have a question about this recipe❓ I will answer in the comment form below👇🏼 the recipe card. Did you make this recipe? If so, could you be a gem and leave a comment and rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ below? This helps others find yummy 😋 recipes to make for their family and friends.
Make Your Own Pumpkin Pie Spice Blends
Note: Be sure to read through the recipe’s post for tips and details about this recipe.
Ingredients
Basic Pumpkin Pie Spice Blend
- 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 2 teaspoons ground nutmeg
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
Spicy Pumpkin Pie Spice Blend
- 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 2 teaspoons ground nutmeg
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- ½ teaspoon ground red pepper
Sweet & Mild Pumpkin Pie Spice Blend
- 4 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon ground allspice
- 2 tablespoons vanilla sugar, see link below to learn how to make your own vanilla sugar
Earthy Pumpkin Pie Spice Blend
- 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 2 teaspoons ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- ½ teaspoon ground cardamon
Instructions
- Carefully measure each spice according to your desired pumpkin pie spice blend recipe. Ensure your measuring spoons are dry to prevent clumping.
- Place the measured spices into a small mixing bowl. Use a whisk or a spoon to thoroughly combine the spices until they are evenly distributed.
- Once the spices are well-mixed, use a funnel and spoon to transfer the blend into an airtight container. Small glass jars or spice tins with tight-fitting lids work best for keeping the spice blend fresh.
- Label your container with the name of the spice blend and the date it was made. This helps you keep track of its freshness.
Notes
- Storage: Store the pumpkin pie spice blend in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cupboard, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Proper storage helps preserve the flavor and potency of the spices.
- Shelf Life: When stored properly in an airtight container, your homemade pumpkin pie spice will stay fresh for up to 6 months. After this period, the spices may begin to lose their potency, resulting in a less vibrant flavor. For the best taste, try to use the blend within 3-4 months.