Plus, you’ll find endless ways to use this homemade pumpkin pie spice — everything from pumpkin rolls and pumpkin smoothies, to (of course!) pumpkin pie. See more ideas below!
What Is Pumpkin Pie Spice?
Pumpkin spice is a blend of spices made with a base of ground cinnamon, along with other warming spices. It can be used to flavor pumpkin pie, cake, cupcakes, pumpkin bread, and just about anything pumpkin flavored!
Pumpkin Spice Ingredients & Substitutions
Here I explain the best pumpkin pie spice ingredients, what each one does in the recipe, and substitution options. For measurements, see the recipe card.
Cinnamon – This is the base of this pumpkin pie spice recipe, and adds warm and sweet notes. Make sure your cinnamon is fresh so that it has all of its flavor! Nutmeg – Nutmeg has distinct flavor (you’ll recognize it!) and is slightly sweet. It’s commonly found in baked goods and eggnog. A possible substitute for nutmeg could be mace or ground cardamom, which comes from the same plant and has a similar flavor. Ground Ginger – Adds a subtle kick and depth. Ground Allspice – Contrary to the name, this is an individual spice that contributes a warm and slightly peppery flavor. Ground Cloves – These offer a strong and aromatic flavor. If you don’t have any or aren’t a fan, you can use more allspice as a substitute, although the flavor will be slightly different.
How To Make Pumpkin Pie Spice
Simply stir all the pumpkin pie spice mix ingredients together in a small bowl, then place in an airtight container or small glass jar. No, this pumpkin spice mix doesn’t have any sugar. Some store-bought versions do contain sugar or sweeteners, or sometimes starches, which is one of the reasons I prefer to make my own! If you prefer a powdery texture, you can grind the spices in a coffee grinder, spice grinder, food processor, powerful blender, or even mash with a mortar and pestle. TIP: I like to use a mini whisk to stir. This helps break up any clumps of spices.
Storage Instructions
If you want to make a big batch of pumpkin pie spice to have on hand for recipes, go for it because it stores very well! Keep it in airtight jars such as jars with lids, small multi-purpose jars (I like these), or spice organizers in the cupboard. It will last up to 2-3 years, but tastes best within 1 year.
Ways To Use Pumpkin Spice
Now that you know how to make pumpkin pie spice, here are some delicious — and healthy — ways to use it:
Pumpkin Pie – Obviously, you’ll need this homemade spice blend for traditional pumpkin pie, but if you want healthier options, try my crustless pumpkin pie or make sugar-free pumpkin pie with an almond flour crust. Dessert – Really you can use this homemade pumpkin pie spice mixture for just about any pumpkin dessert recipe. Try my sugar free pumpkin cheesecake, pumpkin cake, chewy pumpkin cookies, or healthy pumpkin bars. Drinks – Use it to make a hot pumpkin spice latte. If you want pumpkin flavored coffee, use it to make sugar-free coffee creamer. Breakfast – If you want quick and easy pumpkin breakfast recipes, use this spice to make almond flour pumpkin bread or crispy chaffles (there’s a pumpkin spice version!). You could even sprinkle it to make pumpkin granola. Fruit – Sprinkle it over fresh sliced or diced apples, peaches, or even make fall-inspired apple chips.
More Easy Seasoning Recipes
If you like to create your own spice blends with clean ingredients and save money along the way, try these quick and easy homemade spice mix ideas: Most pumpkin baking recipes will use between 1-3 teaspoons for the entire recipe. That’s an estimate, but for best results, just follow the recipe you are making. On the recipe card below, a serving of pumpkin pie spice is 1/4 teaspoon, which is a common amount in a single serving of a pumpkin dessert. Please enter your first name for your account. Your saved recipe will also be sent to your email. Makes 1/2 cup spice mix. Most pumpkin baking recipes use 1-3 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice for a batch of cookies, muffins, cake, pie, etc.
