How to Make Homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice
Pumpkin season is here, and that means it’s time to whip up all your favorite pumpkin recipes! Whether you’re a huge fan of pumpkin spice lattes, pumpkin cookies, or pumpkin muffins, having your own homemade pumpkin pie spice blend on hand is a game-changer. Skip the grocery store and make your own blend of spices at home with this easy recipe. Not only is it simple to make, but it’s also a great way to customize the flavors to your personal preference. Plus, making your own spice mix is a perfect substitute for the store-bought version, allowing you to enjoy your favorite recipes with a touch of homemade love.
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Why Make Your Own Pumpkin Pie Spice?
Making your own pumpkin pie spice is not only fun, but it also allows you to avoid the added preservatives and fillers often found in the store-bought version. Plus, when you make your own spice blends, you can adjust the flavor to suit your personal preference. This homemade spice blend also makes a thoughtful gift for friends and family who love all things pumpkin. Just package it in a cute jar, and you have a handmade gift that’s perfect for the fall season.
Ingredients for Making Homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice
- 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 2 teaspoons ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- Optional: A small amount of black pepper for an extra warming spice
Instructions for Making Homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice
Measure Your Spices
Start by gathering all your ground spices. You’ll need ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, ground allspice, and ground cloves. If you like a little extra warmth, you can also add a small amount of black pepper. Measure out the exact amounts of each spice: 3 tablespoons of ground cinnamon, 2 teaspoons of ground ginger, 2 teaspoons of ground nutmeg, 1 teaspoon of ground allspice, and 1 teaspoon of ground cloves. Use a kitchen scale if you want to be super precise, especially if you’re planning to make a larger batch.
Combine the Spices
Take a small bowl and add all the measured spices into it. If you’re adding black pepper, include it with the other spices. Once all the spices are in the bowl, use a spoon to mix them together thoroughly. Stir until the spices are evenly combined, so every part of the mix has the same flavor. This will make sure your homemade pumpkin pie spice blend tastes perfect every time you use it.
Transfer and Store
After you’ve mixed the spices together, it’s time to store your spice blend. Choose an airtight container or a small jar that seals well to keep your spice mix fresh. Carefully pour the spice blend into the container. Make sure the lid is on tight to keep air out, which helps the spices stay fresh longer. Store your container in a cool, dark place like a pantry or spice cabinet. Keeping it away from heat and light will help the flavors stay strong.
Label Your Jar
It’s important to label your jar so you know exactly what’s inside and when you made it. Write “Pumpkin Pie Spice” on a label, and add the date you made the blend. This way, you’ll know when it’s time to make a fresh batch. Most homemade spice mixes are best when used within six months, so plan to use it up during the fall and winter months.
Using Your Spice Blend
Your homemade pumpkin pie spice is now ready to use! You can use it just like the store-bought version. Add it to your favorite recipes, whether you’re baking pumpkin bread, making pumpkin pie, or even sprinkling it into your morning coffee. If a recipe calls for pumpkin pie spice, just use your homemade blend. It’s perfect for adding that cozy, warm flavor to all your fall treats.
Using Your Homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice
This homemade pumpkin pie spice recipe is incredibly versatile. Use pumpkin pie spice in your favorite fall baking recipes, like pumpkin bread, pumpkin cake, or pumpkin bars. It’s also a great addition to hot drinks like pumpkin spice lattes or teas. Try adding it to your morning coffee with a splash of vanilla extract and maple syrup for a cozy fall treat.
If a recipe calls for pumpkin pie spice and you don’t have any on hand, this homemade blend is a perfect substitute. It’s a good use of individual spices you already have, making it a cost-effective option. Plus, you can tweak the ratios to create your own pumpkin pie spice mix tailored to your taste buds. For example, if you’re not a huge fan of clove, you can use less cinnamon or experiment with different spices to make your blend.
Tips for Storing and Using Your Spice Mix
Expiration Dates
Homemade spices don’t last forever. Be sure to check the expiration dates on your ground spices before mixing, and use your blend within six months for the best flavor.
Store Properly
Keep your homemade pumpkin pie spice in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Avoid storing it near the stove or in direct sunlight to maintain its potency.
Creative Uses
This spice blend isn’t just for pumpkin pie! Use it in pumpkin puree for pies, in pumpkin roll filling, or even sprinkle it over pumpkin desserts like pumpkin spice cookies. It’s also fantastic in apple pie spice recipes if you want a warmer flavor profile.
Conclusion
Now that you have the full recipe for homemade pumpkin pie spice, you’re ready to take on the fall baking season with confidence. Whether you’re making pumpkin pie, pumpkin muffins, or even a pumpkin spice latte, this spice mix is sure to elevate your recipes. Try it out in your next pumpkin recipe and see how it compares to the store-bought version. Don’t forget to pin this step-by-step recipe to your social media or recipe card for easy access next time you need a dash of fall flavor!
Homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice
Equipment
- measuring spoons
- small bowl
- Spoon for mixing
- Airtight container or small jar
- Label and marker (optional)
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tsp ground ginger
- 2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp ground allspice
- 1 tsp ground cloves
- a small dash of ground black pepper OPTIONAL
Instructions
- In a small bowl, measure out 3 tablespoons of ground cinnamon, 2 teaspoons of ground ginger, 2 teaspoons of ground nutmeg, 1 teaspoon of ground allspice, and 1 teaspoon of ground cloves. If desired, add a small amount of black pepper for extra warmth.
- Stir all the spices together in the bowl until they are evenly combined.
- Transfer the spice blend to an airtight container or small jar. Seal tightly and label the jar with the name and date.
- Your homemade pumpkin pie spice is ready! Use it in your favorite pumpkin recipes or as a warm spice in any dish.