Pumpkin pie spice is simple to make at home. Increase the cloves and ginger for a sharper bite, or add more cinnamon for a milder, cozier blend.
I collect spices like some people collect shoes. My spice cabinet gets rearranged, consolidated, and then somehow devolves into chaos within days. Jars pile up, lids get misplaced, and occasionally the cabinet door refuses to close.
Sound familiar? I’m the one who ends up with multiple containers of niche blends and yet runs out of everyday staples. That’s why I try to keep a few easy homemade mixes on hand—practical, economical, and customizable.
One autumn I was mid-way through baking and found I was out of pumpkin pie spice. Instead of running to the store, I mixed my own from what I had in the pantry—and it turned out better than any pre-made version I’d tried.
What is in pumpkin pie spice?
Pumpkin pie spice is simply a blend of warm, aromatic spices that complement pumpkin’s subtle sweetness. The classic combination includes:
- Cinnamon
- Nutmeg
- Cloves
- Allspice
- Ginger
These spices brighten pumpkin recipes and bring that familiar fall flavor to pies, breads, drinks, and more. Making your own lets you tailor the blend to your taste and avoids buying another opened jar that hides at the back of the pantry.
How to make pumpkin pie spice
Gather your five spices and combine them—this takes only a minute or two. The following yields about 1/3 cup:
- 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 2 teaspoons ground nutmeg
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground allspice
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cloves
Measure the spices into a small bowl or jar, mix (or shake) well until evenly blended, and store in an airtight container. You can adjust proportions to suit your preference: add more ginger and cloves for a bolder profile or increase the cinnamon for a sweeter, gentler spice mix.
If you enjoy making blends, a labeled jar of homemade pumpkin pie spice also makes a thoughtful seasonal gift.
Storage tips
Store your pumpkin pie spice like any ground spice: in an airtight jar in a cool, dry, dark place. Proper storage keeps the flavors brighter for longer.
Keep blends away from heat and direct light, and use them within a year for best aroma and flavor.
Uses
Pumpkin pie spice is versatile. Use it in all your fall favorites, including pumpkin pie, muffins, quick breads, rolls, and cheesecakes. It brightens oatmeal, yogurt, and smoothies, and can replace cinnamon in recipes when you want a more complex spice profile.
Try it in baked goods like pumpkin bread or pumpkin muffins, swirl it into coffee or lattes, or sprinkle a little into warm milk for a cozy drink. It also works well in sweet snack mixes, dips, and spiced nuts.
Pumpkin Pie Spice
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 2 teaspoons nutmeg
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground allspice
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cloves
Instructions
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Combine all spices in a small bowl and mix until evenly blended.
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Transfer to an airtight jar or spice container and store in a cool, dry place.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.