Pumpkin spice typically contains a blend of warm and fragrant spices including:
- Cinnamon
- Nutmeg
- Ginger
- Allspice
- Cloves
The specific blend of spices can vary depending on the recipe or manufacturer, but these are the most common spices used to create the signature pumpkin spice flavor.
Quick pumpkin spice recipe
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons ground nutmeg
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground allspice
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cloves
Instructions
- Combine all of the spices in a small bowl and whisk together until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to an airtight container, such as a small jar with a lid or a spice container.
- Store the pumpkin spice mixture in a cool, dry place, such as a cupboard.
You can adjust the proportions of the spices to your liking if you prefer a stronger or milder pumpkin spice flavor.
Pumpkin spice can be used in a variety of recipes, such as pumpkin spice lattes, muffins, cookies, and cakes. We’ll discuss 10 specific dishes below.
The science behind pumpkin space
Cinnamon is the primary spice used in pumpkin spice, and it gives the blend a sweet and woody flavor. Nutmeg adds a warm and slightly sweet note, while ginger adds a bit of spiciness and a slightly earthy flavor. Allspice contributes a warm and slightly sweet flavor that is often described as similar to a combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Finally, cloves add a warm and slightly bitter flavor that complements the other spices in the blend.
These spices are commonly used in pumpkin pie and other pumpkin-flavored foods, and their warm, fragrant flavors are associated with the autumn season and holiday celebrations.
10 dishes that incorporate pumpkin spice
- Pumpkin spice latte – a classic fall drink made with espresso, steamed milk, pumpkin spice, and sometimes topped with whipped cream and caramel drizzle.
- Pumpkin spice cookies – a delicious treat made with pumpkin puree, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Pumpkin spice muffins – a classic breakfast item made with flour, sugar, pumpkin puree, and pumpkin spice.
- Pumpkin spice cake – a festive dessert made with pumpkin puree, pumpkin spice, and cream cheese frosting.
- Pumpkin spice pancakes – a fall twist on a breakfast favorite, made with pumpkin puree, pumpkin spice, and served with maple syrup.
- Pumpkin spice bread – a moist and flavorful quick bread made with pumpkin puree, pumpkin spice, and nuts.
- Pumpkin spice granola – a delicious and healthy breakfast option made with oats, pumpkin seeds, spices, and sweetened with maple syrup.
- Pumpkin spice ice cream – a creamy and indulgent dessert made with pumpkin puree, spices, and heavy cream.
- Pumpkin spice popcorn – a sweet and crunchy snack made with popped popcorn, pumpkin spice, and caramel sauce.
- Pumpkin spice chai tea – a warm and comforting drink made with black tea, spices, milk, and pumpkin puree.