Make a variety of pumpkin desserts and drinks using this quick, 1-minute homemade pumpkin pie spice. It uses five simple spices you probably already have and can be stored for up to two years when kept fresh.
Autumn is the perfect season for warming flavors, and pumpkin spice is the hallmark of fall baking and beverages. This blend of aromatic, warming spices pairs beautifully with sweet, earthy pumpkin for pies, breads, muffins, lattes and more. Making your own mix at home is fast, economical, and often more flavorful than store-bought blends—especially if you use freshly ground spices.
What Is Pumpkin Spice?
Despite the name, pumpkin spice doesn’t contain pumpkin. It’s a blend of ground spices traditionally used to flavor pumpkin-based desserts and seasonal treats like pumpkin pie and pumpkin bread. In many regions, it’s sold pre-mixed in grocery store spice aisles, but preparing it at home gives you control over the balance of flavors and ensures maximum freshness.
Homemade pumpkin spice is perfect for fall baking projects—from cakes and muffins to cookies and bread—and it makes a charming homemade gift when jarred in a pretty container.
Is pumpkin pie spice the same as pumpkin spice?
Yes. The terms “pumpkin pie spice” and “pumpkin spice” are used interchangeably in many places.
Video: Watch How to Make Pumpkin Spice
There is a short video demonstration that shows the simple steps for mixing the spices and explains why fresh spices enhance the flavor. If you prefer written directions, the method below covers everything you need.
Ingredients For Pumpkin Spice
Use these five ground spices to make a classic pumpkin pie spice blend:
- Cinnamon: Warm and sweet, cinnamon is the backbone of the blend and complements pies, breads, cookies and more.
- Ginger: Adds bright, warming spice that lifts baked goods and beverages.
- Nutmeg: Earthy and slightly woody, nutmeg pairs naturally with cinnamon in autumn desserts.
- Allspice: A warm, peppery aroma reminiscent of cloves, cinnamon and nutmeg combined.
- Cloves: Intense and fragrant—use sparingly if you prefer a milder blend.
How To Make Pumpkin Spice
Combine the five ground spices in a mixing bowl and whisk until evenly blended. For lump-free results, pass the spices through a fine sieve or spice sifter before whisking. Alternatively, place all spices in an airtight jar and shake vigorously to combine.
Tip: If you use whole spices, toast them briefly in a dry pan, cool, and grind for an extra-fragrant blend.
How To Store Homemade Pumpkin Spice
Keep the mix in an airtight container or jar stored in a cool, dark place away from heat and direct sunlight. Properly stored, a freshly made blend will retain good flavor for up to two years, though the aroma will gradually fade over time.
What’s the shelf life of homemade pumpkin pie spice?
Shelf life depends on the freshness of the spices you use. If all spices are new, expect peak flavor for about 1–2 years. The blend remains safe beyond that, but the aroma and taste will diminish with time.
Uses For Pumpkin Spice
Homemade pumpkin spice is versatile—use it wherever you want warm autumn flavors. Ideas include:
- Pies: Classic pumpkin pie and other spiced fillings.
- Cookies: Pumpkin cookies, spiced shortbread and other holiday cookies.
- Cakes: Pumpkin loaf, rolls, spice cakes and butter cakes.
- Breads: Buns, cinnamon rolls and spiced quick breads.
- Cheesecake: Pumpkin or spiced cheesecakes for seasonal desserts.
- Muffins: Pumpkin, spice or fruit muffins enhanced with this blend.
- Drinks: Pumpkin spice lattes, spiced hot chocolate, flavored syrups.
- Frostings: Cream cheese frosting or buttercream with a touch of pumpkin spice.
Did you try the recipe?
Please share your feedback in the comment section below. I’d love to hear how you used the spice and which recipes became favorites for your gatherings and holidays.
Thank you! – Aya
Homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice
Pin Recipe
3 minutes
3 minutes
Equipment
Method
Nutrition
Notes
Ingredients
- 3 Tablespoons Cinnamon Ground
- 2 Tablespoons Ginger Ground
- 1 Tablespoon Nutmeg Ground
- 1 ½ teaspoons Allspice Ground
- 1 ½ teaspoons Cloves Ground
NOTE: For best results, measure spices by weight if possible. Scales provide the most consistent results, but the cup and spoon amounts above are convenient and accurate enough for most uses.
Equipment
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Bowl
-
Whisk
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Airtight container or jar
Method
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Measure the spices into a bowl: cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice and cloves. Whisk thoroughly until the color and aroma are uniform.
If you notice any small lumps, push the mixture through a fine sieve or use a small sifter to remove them.
3 Tablespoons Cinnamon,
2 Tablespoons Ginger,
1 Tablespoon Nutmeg,
1 ½ teaspoons Allspice,
1 ½ teaspoons Cloves
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Transfer the blended spice to an airtight jar or shaker and label it with the date. Store at room temperature and use as needed.
Notes
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 3g
Fiber: 16g
Sugar: 3g
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!