Homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice: The Ultimate DIY Fall Blend

There’s nothing quite like the warm, cozy aroma of pumpkin pie spice to make it feel like fall. Whether you’re baking up a storm or crafting the perfect pumpkin spice latte, having a homemade spice blend on hand makes it easier—and more flavorful. In this guide, you’ll learn how to make homemade pumpkin pie spice with simple pantry ingredients, why it’s worth doing, and all the delicious ways to use it. We’ll also share expert tips, common mistakes, and a few favorite recipes to help you fall in love with this iconic seasonal mix.

Looking for inspiration? Try our cinnamon-sugar pumpkin muffins that pair perfectly with this homemade blend.

JUMP TO

Table of Contents

Why Make Homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice?

Making your own pumpkin pie spice isn’t just easy—it’s a game-changer for anyone who loves fall baking. Let’s explore why it’s worth skipping the store-bought blend and making it yourself instead.

Save Money and Skip the Store

Store-bought spice blends can be expensive, especially if you only use them a few times a year. When you make homemade pumpkin pie spice, you use spices you probably already have. This not only saves money but also keeps you from making extra grocery trips.

Plus, you can make a small or large batch depending on how much you need, which means no waste and no stale spice jars sitting around until next year.

Customize the Flavor to Your Taste

One of the best perks of making your own pumpkin pie spice is the ability to tweak it. Love cinnamon? Add more. Want less clove? No problem. When you make it at home, you’re in total control of the flavor profile.

For example, some prefer a more ginger-forward mix for their pumpkin pancakes, while others may lean into nutmeg or allspice for a richer aroma.

Fresher, More Potent Spices

Spices lose their punch over time, especially blends that sit on store shelves for months. When you create a fresh homemade pumpkin pie spice, you’re working with recently opened spices that haven’t been sitting in storage. The result? A more fragrant, intense flavor that boosts any fall recipe.

Not to mention, you’ll avoid additives or anticaking agents that are often present in commercial blends.

The Essential Ingredients in Pumpkin Pie Spice

So what exactly goes into this seasonal favorite? The answer: a handful of familiar spices you likely already have in your kitchen cabinet.

Classic 5-Spice Blend

The traditional homemade pumpkin pie spice mix includes five key ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Spice	Amount
Ground Cinnamon	3 tablespoons
Ground Ginger	2 teaspoons
Ground Nutmeg	2 teaspoons
Ground Allspice	1½ teaspoons
Ground Cloves	1½ teaspoons

Cinnamon is the hero here, bringing sweetness and warmth. Ginger adds a subtle heat, while nutmeg and allspice contribute deep, earthy undertones. Cloves add that final punch of spice, but use them sparingly—they’re potent.

Optional Additions and Variations

Want to make your pumpkin pie spice truly your own? Try adding:

• Cardamom: Adds a hint of citrusy sweetness.
• Mace: Offers a more delicate nutmeg flavor.
• White Pepper: Gives a mild heat that works beautifully in savory dishes.

These aren’t traditional, but they can bring a gourmet twist to your blend.

Substitution Ideas for Missing Ingredients

If you’re out of a spice or two, don’t worry—you can still make a delicious blend. Here are some quick swaps:

• No Allspice? Use equal parts cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
• No Cloves? Try a bit more allspice or nutmeg to keep the balance.
• No Ginger? Ground cinnamon and a touch of black pepper can give a similar kick.

These substitutions aren’t perfect, but they’ll work in a pinch—especially for baking.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Pumpkin Pie Spice at Home

Creating this blend takes less than five minutes, and the results are so worth it. Whether you’re prepping for holiday pies or weekly muffins, this DIY mix is a must-have in your kitchen.

Simple Mixing Method

Here’s how to make a small batch of homemade pumpkin pie spice:

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 2 teaspoons ground nutmeg
• 1½ teaspoons ground allspice
• 1½ teaspoons ground cloves

Instructions

1. Add all the spices into a mixing bowl.
2. Whisk them together until fully combined.
3. Transfer the mixture into a small glass spice jar or airtight container.

Pro Tip: Want less cleanup? Just add the spices straight into the jar, screw on the lid, and shake vigorously.

For larger batches, double or triple the ingredients using the same ratio. You can also store extra in separate jars to give as gifts—perfect for fall and holiday baskets.

Best Storage Practices for Freshness

Spices are sensitive to air, heat, and light. To keep your pumpkin pie spice flavorful:

• Store in an airtight container—preferably glass with a tight seal.
• Keep it in a cool, dark place, like a pantry or spice drawer.
• Avoid moisture: Never shake the jar directly over steaming pots or kettles.

When properly stored, your homemade pumpkin pie spice can last up to 2 years, though it’s best within 6–12 months for peak flavor.

Recipe Yields and Conversions

This base recipe yields around 6 tablespoons of pumpkin pie spice. That’s enough for:

• 6–12 pumpkin pies
• 12–24 batches of cookies or muffins
• Dozens of lattes or smoothies

Need conversions on the fly? Here’s a quick reference:

Pumpkin Pie Spice	Equals Individual Spices
1 tsp	½ tsp cinnamon, ¼ tsp ginger, ¼ tsp nutmeg
1 tbsp	1½ tsp cinnamon, ¾ tsp ginger, ¾ tsp nutmeg

These are estimates but helpful if you’re ever adapting a recipe that doesn’t call for the blend specifically.

Delicious Recipes That Use Pumpkin Pie Spice

Once you’ve mixed your spice, it’s time to put it to good use. From cozy drinks to decadent desserts, this blend adds warmth and depth to so many fall favorites.

Baking Favorites

Pumpkin pie spice shines in all things baked. Think muffins, breads, cookies, and bars.

Don’t miss our cinnamon-sugar pumpkin muffins for a soft, spiced treat that’s perfect for breakfast or snacks.

Craving cookies? Check out our pumpkin pie spice cookies—soft, chewy, and packed with fall flavor.

For something a little richer, discover great ideas like our pumpkin chocolate cheesecake bars. The creamy texture pairs beautifully with this spice mix.

Cozy Fall Drinks

It wouldn’t be autumn without warm, cozy beverages. Add ¼ to ½ teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice to:

• Hot chocolate
• Chai lattes
• Pumpkin spice lattes
• Spiced teas
• Warm apple cider

Use it as a dusting on whipped cream, or mix it directly into your drink for that extra touch of fall goodness.

Seasonal No-Bake Treats

Don’t feel like turning on the oven? No problem. This spice also elevates no-bake desserts with minimal effort.

Check out our no-bake pumpkin cheesecake recipe** for a smooth, creamy dessert that lets the spice shine.**

Looking for inspiration? Try our layered pumpkin spice jello pie—a stunning fall treat that’s also an orphan link from our site!

Whether you’re making snack bars, smoothies, or energy bites, this blend adds instant fall vibes to any no-bake creation.

Expert Tips and Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making pumpkin pie spice is easy, but a few small tweaks can take it from average to outstanding. Avoid these common mistakes and use these pro tips to get the most out of your blend.

Don’t Overdo the Cloves

Cloves are strong. While they bring a wonderful warmth, using too much can overwhelm the entire mix. Stick to the recommended amount, and if in doubt, use slightly less. You can always add more later, but you can’t take it out once it’s in.

Sift for a Smoother Blend

Spices like nutmeg or ground ginger can sometimes clump. To avoid a lumpy mix, sift all your spices together before transferring to your jar. This ensures even distribution, especially when using the spice in baking where uniform flavor is key.

Label Your Jar Clearly

It might sound simple, but labeling your spice blend prevents confusion later—especially if you make multiple blends (like apple pie spice or chai mix). Include the name and the date you made it, so you know when to refresh it.

You can even add a mini recipe label with the measurements right on the jar—makes refills easier down the line.

FAQs About Homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice

Conclusion: Enjoy the Aroma of Fall Anytime

Homemade pumpkin pie spice is more than just a kitchen shortcut—it’s a way to add warmth, comfort, and that nostalgic fall feeling to your favorite recipes. Whether you’re baking pies, whipping up lattes, or experimenting with new fall-inspired dishes, this simple blend delivers big flavor.

Don’t miss our seasonal favorite pumpkin sourdough bagels—they pair beautifully with a dash of this spice and a slather of vegan cream cheese.

So grab those spices, mix up a batch, and fill your kitchen with the scent of autumn.

Print