Homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice

This post was originally published on October 4, 2017 and was improved and updated on September 24, 2023.

There’s something ever so enchanting about fall, and at the heart of it is this popular and delightful blend of spices known as pumpkin pie spice. If you’ve ever wondered what makes a homemade pumpkin pie spice blend so good and why you should consider making your own, I’ve got you – read on.

Five spices portioned out on a white plate with a whisk laying in the background.

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What is Pumpkin Pie Spice?

Pumpkin pie spice is a fragrant blend of warm, aromatic spices that dance harmoniously together to create a flavor profile reminiscent of autumn. While store-bought versions are readily available, crafting your own pumpkin pie spice blend allows you to customize the flavor to your liking.

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The Ingredients that Make It Shine

The quintessential pumpkin pie spice blend typically includes ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, allspice, and cloves. Each spice contributes its unique character to the ensemble:

  • Cinnamon: Provides warmth and a sweet, woody flavor.
  • Nutmeg: Offers a hint of nuttiness and earthiness.
  • Ginger: Adds a zesty, slightly peppery kick.
  • Allspice: Contributes notes of clove, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  • Cloves: Delivers a bold, slightly peppery and pungent taste.

Together, these spices create a blend of flavors that perfectly complement the creamy, earthy sweetness of pumpkin.

Spices whisked together on a white plate with an old whisk.

Why You Should Make Your Own

  • Freshness and Flavor Control – When you make your own pumpkin pie spice, you have complete control over the freshness and quality of the ingredients. Using freshly ground spices ensures a more vibrant and robust flavor compared to pre-packaged blends that may have been sitting on a shelf for months.
  • Customization – Homemade spice blends offer the flexibility to adjust the ratios to suit your personal taste. If you’re particularly fond of cinnamon or nutmeg, you can boost those flavors to your liking. You can also experiment with additional spices like cardamom, mace, or even a touch of vanilla for a unique twist.
  • Cost-Effective – Buying individual spice jars and mixing your own pumpkin pie spice blend can be more cost-effective in the long run, especially if you use these spices in various recipes throughout the fall and winter months.
  • Avoiding Additives – Some store-bought spice blends may contain additives or fillers. By making your own, you can ensure that your pumpkin pie spice is 100% pure spice goodness.
Spices whisked together on a white plate with an old whisk laying on top.

Creative Ways to Use Pumpkin Pie Spice (and Some Recipes!)

1. Pumpkin Pie, pumpkin muffins, pumpkin cookies, pumpkin blondies

Of course, the most iconic use of pumpkin pie spice is in a classic pumpkin pie and in baked goods. Whether you’re baking from scratch or using a canned pumpkin puree, a generous sprinkling of homemade pumpkin pie spice elevates all of your pumpkin baking to a whole new level.

Cookies piled up with a small bowl of pumpkin puree nestled with them.

2. Pumpkin Spice Latte

Why wait in line at the coffee shop when you can create your own Pumpkin Spice Latte at home? Add a pinch of homemade pumpkin pie spice to your morning coffee, along with some frothy milk and a drizzle of maple syrup for a cozy autumnal treat.

3. Pumpkin Spice Pancakes, Waffles or French Toast

Transform your breakfast routine by adding a teaspoon or two of pumpkin pie spice to your pancake or waffle batter. The warm spices complement the sweetness of the syrup and the fluffiness of your morning stack.

A light blue plate of French Toast with butter on top and a fork with a bite on it.

4. Roasted Vegetables

Don’t limit pumpkin pie spice to sweet dishes. Sprinkle it over roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, or butternut squash for a savory-sweet twist that’s perfect for your fall dinner table.

5. Spiced Nuts

Coat your favorite nuts with a mixture of melted butter, sugar, and pumpkin pie spice, then roast them in the oven for a crunchy, spiced snack that’s perfect for holiday gatherings.

6. Pumpkin Spice Whipped Cream

Take your desserts to the next level by infusing your whipped cream with pumpkin pie spice. It’s the perfect accompaniment for pies, cakes, and hot cocoa.

7. Overnight Oats and Oatmeal

Mix a pinch of pumpkin pie spice into your overnight oats for a hearty and comforting breakfast that’s packed with autumn flavors.

A bowl of pumpkin pie oatmeal topped with bananas, walnuts, and a splash of milk.

By crafting your own blend of pumpkin pie spice, you can savor the freshness and customize the flavors to your preferences. Beyond the classic pumpkin pie, there are countless creative ways to infuse the essence of autumn into your dishes and beverages.

So, roll up your sleeves my friends, gather your spices, and let the aroma of homemade pumpkin pie spice take over everything you make this season.

Spices whisked together on a white plate with an old whisk.

Pumpkin Pie Spice

By: Kristine Underwood
Crafted from a harmonious blend of freshly ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, allspice, and cloves, this fragrant pumpkin pie spice blend captures the essence of fall in a jar. Embrace the fall and savor the warmth and versatility of this homemade spice blend.
5 from 10 votes
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Course Sweets & Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 16 teaspoons
Calories 6 kcal

ingredients
 
 

  • 3 TBS cinnamon
  • 2 tsp nutmeg
  • 2 tsp ginger
  • 1 1/2 tsp allspice
  • 1 1/2 tsp cloves

INSTRUCTIONS

  • In a small bowl, whisk together all spices until they are evenly mixed.
    3 TBS cinnamon, 2 tsp nutmeg, 2 tsp ginger, 1 1/2 tsp allspice, 1 1/2 tsp cloves
  • Pour into a mason jar or clean empty spice jar.
  • Use in any recipe that calls for pumpkin pie spice.

Notes

*Organic ingredients are recommended.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 teaspoonCalories: 6kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 0.1gFat: 0.1gSaturated Fat: 0.1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.01gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.01gSodium: 1mgPotassium: 11mgFiber: 1gSugar: 0.1gVitamin A: 6IUVitamin C: 0.2mgCalcium: 17mgIron: 0.2mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was

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20 Comments

  1. I love making my own spice blends. This one is perfect. It uses up your spices so that they don’t old, too! Great post, Kristine.5 stars

  2. First, I LOVE your measuring spoons. 🙂 Second, I love making my own spice mixes and this one is yummy! I’ve used up over half of it already.5 stars

    1. Thank you so much Valentia! They’re from Cost Plus World Market – my weakness! 😉

  3. I’m so glad I found this recipe. I always have a little jar of homemade pumpkin pie spice on hand – because pumpkin happens all year round in this house 🙂5 stars

  4. I am new to making my own spice blends, but it’s so easy! I don’t love cloves, so I left that out and it’s still delicious.5 stars

    1. That’s awesome Alicia! That’s a great point – when you make your own, you can easily change/omit/decrease the ingredients to suit your taste buds. Love it! 🙂

  5. I’ll be making my own mix from now on. This is awesome.5 stars

  6. I use pumpkin spice often, thanks for a solid recipe. I keep a jar mixed up at all times.5 stars

    1. It’s the best Denise! Yep, we use it all year long! #loveit

  7. This blend is perfect to keep on hand for all the delicious fall treats. It’s very balanced.

    Did you get your measuring spoons at World Market? I just bought some that are very similar (if not the same). LOVE!5 stars

    1. Hey Jenn! Yes, the spoons are from World Market (one of my favorite places on earth)! I love them, and they photo amazingly! 🙂

  8. Never thought about making my own pumpkin pie spice until now. Thanks for the recipe, it’s a keeper.5 stars

  9. I’m going to use this as handmade gifts in cute little jars for the holidays this year. It’s really good and easy. Thanks!5 stars

    1. Oh my gosh, Sandra that’s a great idea! I never thought of gifting it! I’m putting that on my list this year! 🙂

  10. Love having a recipe like this so you can make your own. I find it’s so much cheaper and this has a great flavor.5 stars

    1. Me too, Ginny! And I really like knowing exactly how much of each is in there! Haha!