Elevate your fall baking to the next level without Homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice and discover how this quick and easy blend can transform your holiday treats. Perfect for pies, lattes, and everything sweet, this go-to spice mixture is a must-have for every kitchen during the festive season.
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Why You Will Love Making Homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice
- One of the best things about creating your own blend of DIY pumpkin pie spice is the freedom to tailor it to your taste preferences. Love cardamom? Simply add a pinch to the mix. Not a fan of cloves? You can dial it down a bit. The power of customization is right at your fingertips.
- Let’s be real: store-bought spice blends, especially those with the tag “seasonal,” can be pricey. By making your own homemade spice blend using common spices, you not only save money but also ensure that your mix is super fresh. Fresh ground spices can make all the difference in your recipes, giving them a richer flavor.
- While pumpkin pie spice is a staple for holiday baking, there’s nothing stopping you from enjoying its deliciousness year-round. Whether it’s a summer oatmeal with a sprinkle of pumpkin spice or a cozy winter latte, having your own blend on hand means you don’t have to wait for store shelves to stock up.
- Next time you’re looking for a unique and thoughtful gift, why not share a small jar of your homemade pumpkin spice blend? Paired with a favorite recipe card (see below for some inspiration!), spice mixes make for a sweet gesture for fellow baking enthusiasts or anyone who loves the flavors of fall.
Ingredients you’ll need
You’ll need all the ingredients shown in the photograph below.
How to Make Your Own Pumpkin Pie Spice with Step-by-Step Instructions
A complete printable recipe and the measurements in both US customary and metric are available in the recipe card below.
Blending the Spices Together
Take a small bowl or even a small jar like an old spice container, as this can double up as an airtight container for storage later.
Add all the spices in the quantities specified in the recipe. Remember, pumpkin pie spice is all about the perfect balance of these aromatic spices, so measuring them accurately is crucial.
Stir or Shake It Up
Now, here’s the fun part! Use a spoon to stir the spices together until they are well combined.
If you’ve opted for a jar, simply put the lid on and give it a good shake. The goal is to make sure all the spices mix well together, forming a consistent spice blend.
Do a Taste Test
This step isn’t mandatory, but if you’re curious, give it a try! Wet your finger, dip it in sugar, and then into the spice mix.
This will give you an idea of the blend’s flavor profile. Adjust any of the individual spices if you feel the need, but remember, less is often more.
Recipe Notes and Expert Tips
- Measuring the Spices: Accuracy matters when it comes to spice blends. Always use measuring spoons to get the right amounts. A slight overdose of cloves or nutmeg can dominate the flavor, so being precise is key. But, if you go a bit overboard, don’t stress! Just add a little more of the other spices to balance it out.
- What if I don’t have one of the spices listed in the recipe? Don’t fret! You can still make pumpkin pie spice without one of the ingredients. Just be aware that it might taste slightly different. However, cinnamon is a core component, so it’s essential for the blend’s signature flavor.
- Experimenting with Additional Spices: While the classic pumpkin pie spice blend consists of ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground allspice, ground nutmeg, and ground cloves, don’t be shy about adding a dash of cardamom if you’re a fan. It adds a lovely warmth and depth. Similarly, a pinch of ground black pepper can give the mix a slight kick and elevate the overall flavor.
- Grinding Your Own Spices: If you’re looking to step up your pumpkin pie spice game, try grinding your own spices. Starting with whole spices and grinding them right before making your blend can offer a more robust and fresh flavor. A coffee grinder works perfectly for this task, just make sure it’s clean of any coffee remnants.
- Avoiding Lumps in Your Spice Blend: Ground spices, especially when stored in humid conditions, can clump together. To prevent this, you can add a few grains of uncooked rice to your spice jar. The rice will absorb any excess moisture, ensuring your pumpkin pie spice remains lump-free.
- Is there a difference between store-bought and homemade pumpkin pie spice? Homemade pumpkin spice tends to be fresher and more flavorful, especially if you’re using recently purchased or freshly ground spices. Plus, you have the advantage of adjusting the blend to your personal preference when making it at home.
- Can I double or halve the pumpkin pie spice recipe? Yes, you can easily adjust the recipe to make more or less. Just make sure to keep the ratios consistent to maintain the desired flavor balance.
- Is pumpkin pie spice gluten-free? Yes, the spices themselves are gluten-free. However, if you’re buying pre-ground spices, always check the label to ensure there are no added fillers or contaminants.
How to Store Leftover Pumpkin Pie Spice
Batch-making pumpkin pie spice is the savvy way to always have it to hand when you need it; luckily, it stores really well.
Choosing the Right Container
Storing your pumpkin pie spice in an airtight container is crucial. Glass jars with a tight-sealing lid are ideal.
Not only do they keep moisture and air out, ensuring the spice blend remains fresh, but they also allow you to see the contents, making it easy to spot when you’re running low.
Spice tins or plastic containers with secure lids can also work well. Just make sure whatever you use is clean and completely dry before adding the spice.
Keeping it Cool and Dark
While it might be tempting to display your pumpkin pie spice on the countertop (especially if you’ve used a cute jar), it’s best to store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
A kitchen cabinet or pantry is perfect. Sunlight can degrade the flavor of spices over time, and warmth can lead to condensation inside the container, which can make the spices clumpy.
Avoiding Cross-Contamination
If you’re reaching into your jar of pumpkin pie spice with a spoon during baking, make sure the spoon is dry.
Even a tiny amount of moisture can affect the spice’s freshness.
If you’ve used the spice in a recipe and have leftovers on a spoon or measuring device, avoid the temptation to dump it back into your main container.
Cross-contamination can shorten the lifespan of your spice blend.
Shelf Life and Freshness
Like all ground spices, your pumpkin pie spice mix will lose its potency over time.
It’s generally at its best for about 6 months to a year, depending on the freshness of the spices you started with.
What to Serve with Pumpkin Pie Spice
There are so many different ways to serve Pumpkin Pie Spice; you just need to get a little creative.
Beyond the Traditional Pie
While the name might suggest it’s only for pies, pumpkin pie spice is a versatile blend that can be incorporated into a variety of dishes.
Imagine starting your day with a warm bowl of oatmeal sprinkled with your homemade pumpkin pie spice and a dollop of yogurt.
Or, add a pinch to your morning latte or smoothie to bring that cozy fall feeling to your breakfast.
Baked Goods Galore
Your pumpkin pie spice can be the star ingredient in a plethora of baked goods.
Think pumpkin spice muffins, a pumpkin roll, pumpkin bars, bread loaves, cookies, and even brownies.
Adding this blend to your favorite recipes can provide a delicious twist and introduce those classic autumnal flavors.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not sprinkle some over some buttered toast with a dash of sugar for a quick and delightful snack?
Savory Dishes Aren’t Left Out
Yes, you read that right! Pumpkin pie spice can find its way into savory dishes, too.
Consider adding a pinch to a butternut squash soup, vegetable stew, or pumpkin curry. The warm and aromatic flavors can complement many dishes, turning them into comforting meals perfect for chilly days.
Sweet Drinks and Desserts
Warm drinks like hot cocoa and chai tea can get an autumn makeover with a hint of pumpkin pie spice.
Similarly, desserts like rice pudding, pumpkin cheesecake, or even a simple vanilla ice cream can be elevated with a sprinkle of this magical blend.
More Homemade Spice Mixes For You To Try
- Burrito Seasoning Spice Mix
- Indian Curry Spice Mix
- Fajita Seasoning Spice Mix
- Easy Taco Seasoning
- Best Pizza Seasoning
Homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice Recipe
Ingredients
For Pumpkin Pie Spice – there will be leftovers.
- 3 tbsp Ground Cinnamon
- 2 tsp Ground ginger
- 2 tsp Nutmeg
- 1½ tsp Ground allspice
- 1½ tsp Ground cloves
Instructions
For the Cake
- Preheat your oven to 375°F/190°C and line a 15" x 10" jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt, then set aside. In a separate bowl, whisk granulated sugar and eggs until thick, approximately 1 minute. Add the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract and whisk until they are just combined. Using a rubber spatula, fold in the flour mixture until it is just combined.
- Evenly spread the batter into the jelly roll pan and bake until the top springs back when gently pressed, approximately 14 – 15 minutes. Lift the parchment paper and the cake onto a flat heatproof surface. Using your hands, carefully roll from the short end roll (with the parchment paper still in place) until it is completely rolled up; place on a wire rack and leave to cool to room temperature.
For the Cream Cheese Filling
- Whisk cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together.
- When the cake has cooled, place it on a flat surface and roll until virtually flat again. Then, spread the filling evenly over the cake, leaving a ½ inch border, then roll the cake without the parchment paper. Use plastic wrap to tightly wrap the pumpkin roll and place it in the fridge to cool for a minimum of one hour. When cooled, remove the plastic wrap, dust with powdered sugar, cut into slices and serve.
Notes
- Measuring the Spices: Accuracy matters when it comes to spice blends. Always use measuring spoons to get the right amounts. A slight overdose of cloves or nutmeg can dominate the flavor, so being precise is key. But, if you go a bit overboard, don’t stress! Just add a little more of the other spices to balance it out.
- What if I don’t have one of the spices listed in the recipe? Don’t fret! You can still make pumpkin pie spice without one of the ingredients. Just be aware that it might taste slightly different. However, cinnamon is a core component, so it’s essential for the blend’s signature flavor.
- Experimenting with Additional Spices: While the classic pumpkin pie spice blend consists of ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground allspice, ground nutmeg, and ground cloves, don’t be shy about adding a dash of cardamom if you’re a fan. It adds a lovely warmth and depth. Similarly, a pinch of ground black pepper can give the mix a slight kick and elevate the overall flavor.
- Grinding Your Own Spices: If you’re looking to step up your pumpkin pie spice game, try grinding your own spices. Starting with whole spices and grinding them right before making your blend can offer a more robust and fresh flavor. A coffee grinder works perfectly for this task, just make sure it’s clean of any coffee remnants.
- Avoiding Lumps in Your Spice Blend: Ground spices, especially when stored in humid conditions, can clump together. To prevent this, you can add a few grains of uncooked rice to your spice jar. The rice will absorb any excess moisture, ensuring your pumpkin pie spice remains lump-free.
- Storage: Storing your pumpkin pie spice in an airtight container is crucial. Glass jars with a tight-sealing lid are ideal.
- Shelf Life: Like all ground spices, your pumpkin pie spice mix will lose its potency over time. It’s generally at its best for about 6 months to a year, depending on the freshness of the spices you started with.
Nutrition
Disclaimer
Please note that nutrient values are estimates only. Variations can occur due to product availability and manner of food preparation. Nutrition may vary based on methods of origin, preparation, freshness of ingredients, and other factors.
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