What's the Best Substitute for Pumpkin Pie Spice?
Whether you're out of Pumpkin Pie Spice or looking for a healthier alternative, finding the right substitute can save your recipe. A blend of warm spices typically including cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves, used in pumpkin pie and other fall desserts In this guide, we'll explore the best substitutes that work in most recipes and help you achieve similar results.
Quick Answer
The best substitute for pumpkin pie spice is a homemade blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. For 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice, use 1/2 tsp cinnamon + 1/4 tsp nutmeg + 1/4 tsp ginger + 1/8 tsp cloves.
Best Substitutes for Pumpkin Pie Spice
Cinnamon + Nutmeg + Ginger + Cloves
Ratio
1 tsp pumpkin pie spice = 1/2 tsp cinnamon + 1/4 tsp nutmeg + 1/4 tsp ginger + 1/8 tsp cloves
Best For
- pumpkin pie
- pumpkin bread
- pumpkin muffins
- fall desserts
- when you want authentic flavor
Description
The classic homemade blend that recreates the traditional pumpkin pie spice flavor
This is the most authentic substitute. Adjust ratios based on your taste preferences. You can also add allspice for more complexity.
Apple Pie Spice
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- pumpkin desserts
- fall baking
- when you want similar warm spice flavor
- quick substitute
Description
Similar spice blend commonly used in apple desserts
Apple pie spice is very similar to pumpkin pie spice, usually containing cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. It works well as a direct substitute.
Cinnamon + Allspice + Nutmeg
Ratio
1 tsp pumpkin pie spice = 1/2 tsp cinnamon + 1/4 tsp allspice + 1/4 tsp nutmeg
Best For
- pumpkin desserts
- when you don't have ginger or cloves
- fall baking
- quick spice blend
Description
Simplified blend using three common spices
This blend works well when you don't have all the individual spices. Allspice provides some of the complexity of the full blend.
Cinnamon + Ginger + Allspice
Ratio
1 tsp pumpkin pie spice = 1/2 tsp cinnamon + 1/4 tsp ginger + 1/4 tsp allspice
Best For
- pumpkin desserts
- when you want ginger warmth
- fall baking
- spiced desserts
Description
Alternative three-spice blend with ginger for warmth
This blend emphasizes the warm, spicy notes. Good when you want more ginger flavor in your pumpkin desserts.
Cinnamon + Nutmeg + Allspice + Cardamom
Ratio
1 tsp pumpkin pie spice = 1/2 tsp cinnamon + 1/4 tsp nutmeg + 1/4 tsp allspice + 1/8 tsp cardamom
Best For
- pumpkin desserts
- when you want more complex flavor
- fall baking
- elevated desserts
Description
Enhanced blend with cardamom for added complexity
This blend adds cardamom for a more complex, slightly floral note. Great for when you want to elevate your pumpkin desserts.
Cinnamon + Cloves + Allspice
Ratio
1 tsp pumpkin pie spice = 1/2 tsp cinnamon + 1/4 tsp cloves + 1/4 tsp allspice
Best For
- pumpkin desserts
- when you want deeper spice flavor
- fall baking
- rich desserts
Description
Warm blend emphasizing the deeper spice notes
This blend emphasizes the deeper, more intense spice flavors. Good for rich, hearty pumpkin desserts.
Cinnamon + Nutmeg + Mace
Ratio
1 tsp pumpkin pie spice = 1/2 tsp cinnamon + 1/4 tsp nutmeg + 1/4 tsp mace
Best For
- pumpkin desserts
- traditional baking
- when you want authentic spice blend
- fall desserts
Description
Classic blend using mace (the outer covering of nutmeg)
Mace is the outer covering of nutmeg and has a similar but slightly different flavor. This creates a more traditional spice blend.
How to Choose the Right Substitute
When choosing a substitute for Pumpkin Pie Spice, consider the recipe's requirements for taste, texture, and cooking method. Think about whether you need something that mimics the original exactly or if a different but complementary flavor would work. Also consider dietary restrictions and availability of ingredients.
Cooking Tips
Pumpkin pie spice is essential for authentic pumpkin pie flavor
It's a blend of warm spices that complement pumpkin's natural sweetness
The spice blend typically includes cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves
You can make your own pumpkin pie spice blend at home
Store homemade spice blends in airtight containers for up to 6 months
Pumpkin pie spice works well in both sweet and savory dishes
It's perfect for fall and winter baking
The spice blend enhances the natural flavor of pumpkin and squash
You can adjust the ratios of individual spices to suit your taste
Pumpkin pie spice pairs well with brown sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla
Always taste and adjust seasonings when using substitutes
Consider the cooking method - some substitutes work better in certain applications