Looking for a complex blend of aromatic spices to awaken your fall senses? Look no further than this pumpkin spice recipe!
What is pumpkin pie spice made of? In general, pumpkin spice contains a blend of cinnamon, ginger, clove and nutmeg. More than half of the contents is cinnamon, but there is a strong array of background notes.
As the name suggests, pumpkin pie spice is the foundation of fragrant flavor added to pumpkin pies. However, that is not the only use for this sweet-smelling blend.
What goes good with pumpkin spice? Beside pumpkins, there are a number of foods that go well with pumpkin spice. We use the spice blend in recipes like pumpkin overnight oats, breads, cookies and muffins.
When using pumpkin pie spice, the options are definitely not limited to pumpkins. The versatility of the aromatic blend is uncountable.
What is the difference between pumpkin pie spice and apple pie spice? Pumpkin pie spice is usually comprised of cinnamon, ginger and clove. Apple pie spice typically contains cinnamon, nutmeg and allspice, again the bulk of the blend consists of mostly cinnamon.
Pumpkin Pie Spice Substitute
What if you don’t have any pumpkin pie spice, or you simply don’t want to keep it in your pantry for that one pie you bake a year. Don’t fret, there is a simple solution for you to try.
My first suggestion is to make a small batch. This homemade pumpkin pie spice recipe is a perfect substitute for the store bought brands. ¼ of this recipe should yield you plenty to execute a pie or two.
What if you don’t have all the spices in the ingredients list? Then just use the ones you have.
If you’re missing nutmeg then simply do without. The blend is extremely fragrant and I promise that the average person won’t notice the difference.
Spice blends are meant are a general guide, they are not really set in stone. If you like more of one spice and less of another, then make the alterations based on your personal preference.
What can you use instead of pumpkin pie spice? Pumpkin pie spice is a blend of complex spices and therefore is not one sole ingredient. The intricate aroma and flavor profile leaves you questioning which individual essences were used.
Apple pie spice isn’t very far off in terms of flavor profile and ingredient balance. But, chances are that you don’t have that in the pantry either.
Can I substitute cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice? If there were one ingredient to substitute for pumpkin pie spice, then it would have to be cinnamon. As the bulk component, it makes up over 50% of the total volume.
The meal preparation will lack the complex background flavors that the other spices provide, but the predominate zing will be present. If you have no other solution at hand, just use cinnamon instead of pumpkin pie spice.
Is allspice the same as pumpkin pie spice? Allspice is a dried berry that has flavors similar to cinnamon, clove, nutmeg and pepper. It pairs well with pumpkin and can be used in the blend of ingredients, however it is not the same as pumpkin pie spice.
What spice can I use instead of nutmeg? Cinnamon is the best substitute for ground nutmeg. In addition, ginger, mace, allspice and clove provide subtle complexities that resemble the depth of flavor offered by nutmeg.
How to make pumpkin pie spice
Making your own spice blend is relatively straight forward. Start gathering the ingredients and determine whether you are looking for a balanced flavor or one-sided direction.
Grind up the spices individually, and then mix then all together. Remember that whole spices will be at least twice as strong as ground prepackaged varieties from commercial manufacturers.
Grab your spice grinder and lets start blending the ingredients in this flavorful pumpkin pie spice recipe!
Pumpkin Pie Spice Ingredients:
- Cinnamon
- Ginger
- Clove
- Nutmeg
Determine the ratio you wish to follow and then mix the components together. If you are looking for a bit more of one spice, or slightly less of another, then make the adjustments as you see fit.
This recipe is rather forgiving and allows for a great deal of variation based on personal preference.
Pumpkin Pie Spice Recipe With Cardamom
Cardamom is another potent aromatic that pairs well with pumpkin and the flavors of fall. However, it’s not commonly in pumpkin pie spice recipes.
I have included an optional recipe variation containing cardamom that I believe is worth trying out. Add the discretionary 1 teaspoon of cardamom if you are looking to further enhance the complexity of the spice blend.
No worries if you don’t like cardamom, just omit it from the ingredients. However, I you’re up for a modern twist on the classic pumpkin pie spice recipe, then cardamom is a perfect addition.
Pumpkin Pie Spice Tips:
Spice blends are a fantastic way to boost flavor and add complexity to a wide range of dishes.
Pumpkin spice latte overnight oats are not the only use for this blend of spices. This pumpkin pie spice recipe can also be used to brighten up almond milk, baked goods, and smoothies.
Of course buying commercially manufactured mixes is a possibility. But to guarantee a fresher aroma and more potent taste, it’s better to make your own.
Here are a handful of tips that will make it easy to blend your own pumpkin pie spice together.
- Exercise caution because whole spices are twice as strong as ground spices that come from prepackaged containers. Reduce the amount of the ingredient in question, and then consider adding more after the blend has been completed.
- This recipe is adjustable based on your personal preference. Add more of one spice, and less of another. This recipe is more of a general guideline rather than strict measurements.
- Find other uses for pumpkin pie spice. From seasonal oatmeal porridge to spiced baked goods like breads, cookies and muffins, the intricate blend of seasonings can be used to build flavor in many recipes.
- Store in an airtight spice container in order to preserve long lasting freshness. If properly stored in a cool, dark and dry area, then the pumpkin pie spice will last for about 6 months.
Try These Flavor Packed Recipes:
Pumpkin Pie Spice Recipe
How to make pumpkin pie spice so that you no longer need to purchase it from the store. This spice blend is easy to make and only requires 5 ingredients that are common in pantry of many households.
Pumpkin pie has a recognizable flavor profile due to the unique blend of spices that are frequently used. Follow along to learn the proportions of cinnamon, ginger, clove, nutmeg and cardamom.
If you like more of one spice and less of another, then make the minor adjustments. This recipe is a basic guideline, and there is no need for precise measurements.
Make a small batch if you don't use it frequently. That way it stay fresh and you won't need to worry about the mixture going stale.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1½ teaspoons ground ginger
- 2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 2 teaspoon ground cardamom (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Combine spices in a small bowl and then mix well.
- Store in a small jar or spice container.
Notes
- Don’t think that these measurements need to be exact. This recipe is very forgiving and allows for minor adjustments based on personal preference. If you like less of one spice and more of another, make the necessary adjustments based on the flavor profile you are looking for.
- The two basic types of cinnamon are Ceylon and cassia. Cassia cinnamon is spicy and bold and is most often preferred for baking. Ceylon cinnamon has a more complex flavor that is delicate enough to be added in ice creams and simple sauces.
- Whole spices like cardamom pods, clove and nutmeg are substantially stronger than ground seasonings that come from a commercial manufacturer. A little bit goes a long way. It’s recommended to reduce the amounts in half in the beginning. You can always add a bit more after the blend has been completed.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
10Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 10Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 2mgCarbohydrates: 3gFiber: 2gSugar: 0gProtein: 0g
Nutrition information isn’t always accurate.