You can easily substitute pumpkin pie spice by combining common individual spices like cinnamon, ginger, allspice, cloves, or nutmeg, adjusting the quantities based on what you have available.
Homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice Substitutions
When you're in the middle of a recipe and realize you're out of pumpkin pie spice, there's no need to worry. You can quickly create an effective substitute using spices commonly found in most kitchens. The key is to combine a base of cinnamon with smaller amounts of other warming spices to mimic the complex flavor profile of pumpkin pie spice.
Simple Substitutions for 1 Teaspoon of Pumpkin Pie Spice
The required proportions for creating 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice depend on the variety and quantity of individual spices you have on hand. Here are the most common and effective combinations:
Option 1: Using Cinnamon and One Other Spice
If you have ground cinnamon and at least one other spice from the traditional pumpkin pie spice blend (ginger, allspice, cloves, or nutmeg), you can create a suitable substitute.
- ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon of one of the following:
- Ground ginger
- Ground allspice
- Ground cloves
- Ground nutmeg
Option 2: Using Cinnamon and Two Other Spices
For a more rounded flavor closer to a store-bought blend, use cinnamon with two other distinct spices from the list. This allows for a richer and more nuanced aroma.
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon of two of the following (mix and match):
- Ground ginger
- Ground allspice
- Ground cloves
- Ground nutmeg
Quick Reference for Pumpkin Pie Spice Substitutions
| Desired Pumpkin Pie Spice Amount | If You Have... | Spices & Quantities to Use |
|---|---|---|
| 1 teaspoon | Cinnamon + One Other Spice | ¾ teaspoon cinnamon + ¼ teaspoon of one (ginger, allspice, cloves, or nutmeg) |
| 1 teaspoon | Cinnamon + Two Other Spices | ½ teaspoon cinnamon + ¼ teaspoon of two (ginger, allspice, cloves, or nutmeg) |
Tips for Mixing Your Own Spice Blend
- Freshness Matters: For the most potent and aromatic results, ensure your individual spices are fresh. Older spices tend to lose their flavor intensity.
- Combine Thoroughly: Before adding your homemade blend to your recipe, mix the individual spices together very well in a small bowl to ensure even distribution of flavors.
- Storage: If you prepare a larger batch for future use, store the blend in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to preserve its potency.
