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Nothing signals fall like a homemade pumpkin pie spice! This easy pumpkin spice mix is fresher, more aromatic, and completely customizable compared to store-bought blends. It’s ideal for pumpkin spice recipes, fall baking, cozy drinks, and seasonal treats. Plus you only need pantry staples to make it in minutes.
about this Pumpkin Pie Spice
Making your own pumpkin pie spice gives you full control over flavor and aroma. Store-bought pumpkin spice mixes often lose potency over time, especially if they’ve been sitting on a shelf for months. When you make it yourself, the aroma is stronger, the flavors are more vibrant, and the whole mix feels more intentional.
This versatile spice mix isn’t just for pumpkin pie, though. You can stir it into pumpkin muffins, pumpkin bars, quick breads, lattes, or even overnight oats. It also works well in granola, pancakes, and even savory dishes like roasted squash or carrots.
All the ingredients in this recipe are common pantry staples, so there’s no need for specialty spices. You can tweak the ratios, such as adding less clove or more cinnamon so that it perfectly suits your taste. With a homemade pumpkin spice blend on hand, you’ll reach for it all season long. It also makes for a great gift!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here’s why this homemade pumpkin pie spice is a must-have for every fall kitchen:
- Always fresh – you mix right before using, so your spice blend is at its peak of aroma
- Fully customizable – adjust cinnamon, cloves, or ginger to your preference.
- Multi‑purpose – works for baking, drinks, breakfast, and even savory dishes
- Budget-friendly – uses small amounts of common spices you likely already own
ingredients
Ground cinnamon. This is the foundation of the blend. It adds warmth and sweetness that’s familiar and comforting. You can even go heavier on cinnamon if you prefer a more mellow spice mix.
Ground ginger. This helps balance out the warmth of cinnamon and clove with a fresh, clean bite.
Nutmeg. Adds complexity with its sweet, nutty, and slightly woodsy flavor.
Ground allspice. It acts as a connector between the other flavors, tying everything together.
Ground cloves. Very strong and aromatic. A little goes a long way here.
Ground cardamom (optional). It’s not necessary, but a small amount gives the blend dimension.
this recipe’s must-haves
You’ll need a medium mixing bowl with enough space to combine all the spices without spilling. A whisk or small spoon helps break up any clumps and ensures everything is evenly blended.
Once mixed, transfer the blend to an small jar or container to protect it from light, air, and moisture. Keeping it sealed helps the spices stay fresh and aromatic for longer.
here’s how to make this Pumpkin Pie Spice
whisk
In a small bowl, whisk together all of the ingredients until completely combined and no visible streaks of a single spice remain.
store
Transfer the blend into an airtight jar or container and seal tightly. Keep it stored in a cool, dark place until use.
Tips for Success
- Adjust spice ratios depending on personal preference
- Store in an airtight container away from sunlight to maintain potency.
- Use a small whisk or mini sieve to remove clumps.
- Make in small batches to keep the blend fresh.
variations
Cardamom is optional, but it adds a floral and citrusy depth to create a more complex blend.
You can also omit the cloves for a milder flavor if strong spices aren’t your favorite. Cloves tend to dominate a blend quickly, so leaving them out creates a softer spice profile.
If you want to sharpen certain notes, try adding a pinch more ginger or allspice. These two spices can boost brightness and spice intensity.
Turn this into a sugar-spice mix like cinnamon sugar. Combine one tablespoon of sugar with one teaspoon of the pumpkin pie spice, and sprinkle it over toast, buttered English muffins, French toast, oatmeal, or even stir it into your morning coffee.
More Dessert Recipes: Pumpkin Pie Spice Cookies I Pumpkin Banana Bread with Nutella I Pumpkin Cream Cheese Streusel Muffins.
faqs
Can I make a bigger batch?
Yes, of course! Just double or triple the quantities and store them in a larger jar to keep them fresh.
How long does it last?
Use within 6 to 12 months for the best flavor. Keep it tightly sealed and out of direct sunlight in a cool place.
Can I use it in savory recipes?
Absolutely! A small pinch can bring out the sweetness in roasted vegetables like carrots, squash, or sweet potatoes.
If you love homemade spices, then check out the spices page.
Ways to use this pumpkin pie spice
You can use pumpkin pie spice in a wide range of recipes, and a little goes a long way. Use 1 to 2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice mix in baked goods like pumpkin muffins, quick bread, or cookies. For drinks, stir 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon into lattes, hot chocolate, or chai. Add a small pinch to roasted vegetables for subtle warmth. This blend works well for breakfast, desserts, beverages, and savory dishes alike.
Recipes to use this pumpkin spice in
Pumpkin Pie Spice really shines in cozy baked goods, starting with these soft and chewy Pumpkin Pie Spice Cookies. They’re rich with warm flavor and make a great snack or dessert throughout fall.
It also works beautifully in Pumpkin Banana Bread with Nutella Swirl, where the spice blend balances the sweetness of banana and the richness of Nutella for a loaf that’s moist, flavorful, and hard to resist.
If you’re looking for something bakery-style, try the Pumpkin Cream Cheese Streusel Muffins. The spice pairs perfectly with the tangy cream cheese center and crumbly streusel topping, making each bite feel like a fall morning treat.
Finally, if you make this pumpkin pie spice recipe, please be sure to give this recipe a star recipe rating on the recipe card and/or leave a comment! I love to hear when you all make recipes, and I do take the time to respond to every single comment.
Feel free to drop questions below too, if you have them!
Oh and be sure to tag me on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest if you make the recipe! I love being able to see these recipes come to life in your homes – it’s my favorite thing to look through those photos. It really means the world to me!
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Pumpkin Pie Spice
equipment
- Medium mixing bowl
- Whisk or small spoon
- Airtight jar or container for storage
ingredients
- 3 Tbsp. ground cinnamon
- 2 tsp. ground ginger
- 2 tsp. nutmeg
- 1 ½ tsp. ground allspice
- 1 tsp. ground cloves
- ¾ tsp ground cardamom optional
instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together all of the ingredients until combined.
- Store in an airtight jar or container.
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notes
- For best results, buy all the spices at the same time so they age evenly. Store the blend at room temperature in a dry, cool, and dark place like a cupboard, pantry, or drawer away from heat and light.
- For the best flavor, try to use the spice mix within 6 months. All measurements are rounded for simplicity and easy mixing.
- Looking for ways to use it? Try it in these pumpkin pie spice cookies or stir it into your next pumpkin spice latte for a cozy seasonal upgrade.
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about meghan
Meghan Yager is the recipe developer, food photographer, and creative force behind Cake ‘n Knife, where everyday moments are celebrated with bold, flavor-forward recipes. From cozy cocktails to bold appetizers and indulgent desserts, her approachable style brings people together around food worth sharing. Meghan’s work has been featured by Good Housekeeping, Oprah Daily, Today, Woman’s Day, and The Huffington Post. She lives in Denver, where she brings big flavor and a little sass to every bite.
