Can You Make Your Own Pumpkin Spice?

It’s finally fall, and that means pumpkin spice everything. If you can’t get enough of the stuff, you might be wondering if you can make your own pumpkin spice mix instead of spending a fortune at the grocery store for a tiny bottle. It’s actually easier and more cost-effective than you think.

What is Pumpkin Spice?

Pumpkin spice is a blend of warm, comforting spices that comprises all the coziness of autumn. Typically associated with pumpkin pie and pumpkin spice lattes, this aromatic blend usually includes cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and sometimes allspice.

Pumpkin spice’s popularity has grown beyond traditional pumpkin pies to infuse lattes, cookies, cakes, and even savory dishes. While store-bought pumpkin spice blends are readily available, they can be expensive and sometimes become unavailable during the season. Making your own pumpkin spice mix helps you save some money and allows you to tailor it to your specific tastes and preferences.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice

Making your own pumpkin spice is as simple as combining a variety of readily available spices. Feel free to experiment with ratios yourself or use this recipe as a starting point:

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 2 teaspoons ground nutmeg
• 1 ½ teaspoons ground cloves
• 1 ½ teaspoons allspice (optional)

Instructions:

• Make sure your spices are fresh for the best flavor. If you want to go the extra mile, use whole spices and grind them just before making your blend.
• In a small bowl, measure out the cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice (if using). Adjust the quantities based on your taste preferences.
• Mix the spices together until well combined. This ensures an even distribution of flavors.
• Transfer your homemade pumpkin spice blend to an airtight container. This helps preserve its freshness and aroma.

How Long Does Pumpkin Spice Last

One of the advantages of making your own pumpkin spice is the control over the freshness of your blend. Homemade blends can retain their flavor for several months if stored correctly. Keep your pumpkin spice mix in an airtight container stored in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and moisture.

As a general rule of thumb, aim to use your pumpkin spice within six months for the best flavor. Over time, the potency of the individual spices will decrease, so it’s a good idea to make smaller batches at a time if you don’t plan on using it often.

How to Use Pumpkin Spice

Once you’ve learned how to make pumpkin spice, it’s time to put it to use. If you like pumpkin spice enough to make your own blend, you’ll find that there are many ways you can use it. Feel free to experiment with various dishes and baked goods, or start with one of these ideas:

• Pumpkin Spice Latte: Create your version of the famous fall pumpkin spice latte recipe by adding a teaspoon or two of pumpkin spice to your coffee or latte. Top it with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin spice for an extra treat.
• Baked Goods: Enhance the flavor of your baked goods by adding pumpkin spice to cookies, muffins, cakes, or even pancake batter. The warm, aromatic notes will give your favorite treats a fun fall spin.
• Oatmeal and Porridge: Stirring a pinch of pumpkin spice into your morning oatmeal or porridge can transform a simple breakfast into a cozy, fall-inspired meal. Add some pumpkin seeds for extra nutrients.
• Savory Dishes: Don’t limit pumpkin spice to sweet treats. Experiment with adding a dash to your roasted vegetables, soups, or even savory sauces.
• Homemade Pumpkin Spice Syrup: Combine sugar, water, and pumpkin spice in a saucepan to create a delicious syrup. This pumpkin spice recipe can be drizzled over pancakes and waffles or used to sweeten your coffee.

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Making your own pumpkin spice is a rewarding way to enjoy the flavors of the season. With the ability to customize the blend to suit your taste, you can really make this seasonal spice your own.