Pumpkin Spice: Ultimate Guide, DIY Mix, Syrup, Lattes, and Cozy Fall Baking

As autumn leaves begin their colorful transformation, there’s one flavor that captures the essence of fall like no other: pumpkin spice. This aromatic blend has become synonymous with cozy sweaters, crisp air, and the warm embrace of seasonal comfort foods and beverages across America.

pumpkin spice recipe

Pumpkin spice is far more than just a trendy seasonal flavor—it’s a carefully crafted blend of warming spices that has deep roots in American culinary tradition. This beloved mixture typically combines cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves to create a complex, aromatic profile that evokes feelings of warmth and nostalgia, much like other comfort recipes that bring us back to cozy moments.

The U.S. seasonality of pumpkin spice runs from late August through November, with peak popularity during September and October. Its appeal extends far beyond coffee shops, finding its way into everything from baked goods and breakfast items to candles and beauty products.

Here’s something that surprises many people: traditional pumpkin spice contains no actual pumpkin. The name refers to the spice blend traditionally used in pumpkin pie, not the gourd itself. This distinction is crucial when understanding the difference between pumpkin pie spice (the dry blend) and the pumpkin spice flavoring you’ll find in coffee shops.

Definition and origins

The origins of pumpkin spice trace back to colonial America, where these warming spices were precious commodities used to enhance seasonal desserts. The blend was specifically developed to complement the mild, earthy flavor of pumpkin in traditional pies and custards.

The composition centers around cinnamon as the dominant note, typically making up 40-50% of the blend. This cinnamon-forward profile is then supported by the heat of ginger, the sweetness of nutmeg, and the depth of cloves, creating a harmonious balance that’s both familiar and complex.

Pumpkin spice vs pie spice

While often used interchangeably, there are subtle differences between “pumpkin spice” and “pumpkin pie spice.” Pumpkin pie spice is the traditional dry blend specifically formulated for baking, while “pumpkin spice” has evolved to encompass both the original blend and its modern commercial applications.

Typical ratios for classic pumpkin pie spice include:

• 3 tablespoons cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons ginger
• 2 teaspoons nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon cloves

These proportions can be adjusted based on personal preference, and many recipes allow for 1:1 substitution between homemade and store-bought versions.

DIY Pumpkin Spice Mix

Joudia Elise

This homemade pumpkin spice blend combines cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves with optional allspice and black pepper. Perfect for lattes, pies, cakes, and fall baking, it’s an aromatic mix that captures the essence of autumn.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 5 minutes mins

Course Spice Mix

Cuisine American

Servings 1 cup

Calories 6 kcal

Equipment

• Measuring spoons
• small bowl
• spoon or whisk
• Airtight spice jar

Ingredients

  

• 3 tbsp ground cinnamon
• 2 tsp ground ginger
• 2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 tsp ground allspice (optional)
• pinch black pepper (optional)

Instructions

 

• Measure out ground cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. Add optional allspice and black pepper if desired.
• Mix all spices together in a small bowl until evenly combined.
• Transfer the spice blend into an airtight container and store away from heat and light for up to 8 months.

Notes

Adjust ratios to taste: add more ginger for heat, reduce cloves for less bitterness, or include cardamom for complexity. Toasting whole spices before grinding enhances flavor depth. Store in an airtight container for up to 8 months for peak freshness.

Keyword DIY spice blend, fall baking, latte spice, pumpkin spice mix

Coffee shop flavor profile

When coffee shops like Starbucks popularized the pumpkin spice latte, they expanded the concept beyond dry spices. Commercial pumpkin spice flavoring often includes vanilla, caramel notes, and sometimes actual pumpkin puree or pumpkin flavor, creating a sweeter, more dessert-like profile than traditional pie spice.

This evolution has led to pumpkin spice applications in lattes, chai teas, and flavored syrups that emphasize sweetness and creaminess alongside the classic spice blend.

DIY pumpkin spice recipe mix

Creating your own pumpkin spice blend gives you complete control over flavor intensity and allows for personal customization. A well-balanced house blend can elevate both your baking and beverage game while saving money compared to store-bought options.

Ingredients and ratios

Basic Pumpkin Spice Mix:

• 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 2 teaspoons ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon allspice (optional)
• Tiny pinch of black pepper (optional, for depth)

This recipe yields approximately 1/3 cup of spice blend, enough for multiple batches of baked goods or several weeks of coffee enhancement.

Flavor tuning and swaps

For more heat: Increase ginger to 1 tablespoon and add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

To reduce bitterness: Cut cloves to 1/2 teaspoon and increase nutmeg proportionally.

For complexity: Add 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom or 1/4 teaspoon ground mace.

Chef’s tip: Toast whole spices in a dry pan for 30 seconds before grinding for enhanced flavor depth.

Storage and substitution

Store your homemade blend in an airtight container away from light and heat. Properly stored pumpkin spice maintains peak flavor for 6-8 months, though it remains safe to use for up to a year.

For baking substitutions, use this 1:1 conversion guide:

• 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice = 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon + 1/4 teaspoon ginger + 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg + pinch of cloves
• When doubling recipes, start with 1.5x the spice amount and adjust to taste

Pumpkin spice syrup & creamer

Transform your homemade spice blend into café-quality syrups and creamers that rival expensive store-bought versions. These liquid concentrates offer convenience and consistency for daily coffee rituals.

Pumpkin spice syrup (step-by-step)

Ingredients:

• 1 cup water
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons pumpkin spice mix
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method:

1. Combine water and sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat
2. Stir until sugar completely dissolves (about 3 minutes)
3. Add pumpkin spice mix and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla
5. Let cool for 10 minutes, then strain through fine-mesh strainer
6. Store in clean glass jar in refrigerator for up to 3 weeks

Dairy & dairy-free creamer

Dairy Version:

• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1/4 cup pumpkin spice syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Dairy-Free Options:

• Oat base: 1 cup oat milk + 2 tablespoons cashew butter for richness
• Coconut base: 3/4 cup coconut milk + 1/4 cup coconut cream
• Almond base: 1 cup unsweetened almond milk + 2 tablespoons almond butter

Emulsification tip: Blend all ingredients for 30 seconds to ensure smooth consistency. Store refrigerated for up to 5 days.

Uses in coffee & chai

• Coffee portions: 1-2 tablespoons syrup per 8 oz coffee
• Cold brew: 2-3 tablespoons syrup per 12 oz cold brew
• Iced lattes: 2 tablespoons syrup + 1/4 cup creamer per 16 oz drink
• Chai concentrate: 1 tablespoon syrup per 6 oz chai tea

Pumpkin spice latte at home

Master the art of café-quality pumpkin spice lattes without leaving your kitchen. These methods work with basic equipment and deliver professional results.

Hot & iced PSL methods

Hot PSL Method:

1. Brew 1/2 cup strong coffee or 2 shots espresso
2. Heat 3/4 cup milk in saucepan (don’t boil)
3. Add 2 tablespoons pumpkin spice syrup to coffee
4. Foam technique: Use French press plunger or milk frother for 30 seconds
5. Pour steamed milk, holding back foam with spoon
6. Top with foam and dust with pumpkin spice

Iced PSL Method:

1. Brew coffee double-strength and let cool
2. Fill 16 oz glass with ice
3. Add 2 tablespoons syrup and 1/4 cup cold milk or creamer
4. Cold foam: Shake cold milk in jar for 1 minute, or use milk frother
5. Pour coffee over ice mixture and top with cold foam

Calories and light swaps

Standard PSL calories: 380-420 calories (16 oz with whole milk and whipped cream)

Calorie reduction strategies:

• Milk swap: Use unsweetened almond milk (save 80 calories)
• Syrup reduction: Cut syrup by half (save 60 calories)
• Skip whipped cream: Save 70-100 calories
• Sugar-free syrup: Use stevia-sweetened version (save 50 calories)

Light PSL total: 180-220 calories with these modifications

Starbucks vs Dunkin notes

Starbucks PSL: More dessert-forward with vanilla and caramel undertones, real pumpkin puree added in 2015, typically sweeter profile

Dunkin Pumpkin Spice: Spice-focused with less sweetness, no actual pumpkin, more traditional pie spice flavor, often preferred by those wanting authentic spice taste

Both chains offer sugar-free and alternative milk options, with seasonal availability typically running late August through November.

Pumpkin spice chai & protein

Expand your pumpkin spice horizons beyond coffee with warming chai variations and protein-packed additions that fuel your day.

Chai latte method

Tea Concentrate Base:

• 4 black tea bags or 2 tablespoons loose chai tea
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin spice syrup
• Steep for 5 minutes, remove tea

Milk Preparation:

• Heat 3/4 cup milk of choice
• Add 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• Spice enhancement: Add pinch of fresh grated ginger

Assembly: Combine tea concentrate with spiced milk, adjusting sweetness to taste. The result is a warming, complex beverage that highlights the earthy spices.

Protein add-ins

Coffee Protein Method:

• 1 scoop vanilla or unflavored protein powder
• 8 oz cooled pumpkin spice coffee
• 1/4 cup milk or plant milk
• Blending tip: Use immersion blender to prevent clumping

Smoothie Application:

• 1 scoop protein powder
• 1/2 frozen banana
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice mix
• 1 cup milk of choice
• 1 tablespoon almond butter

Overnight Oats Enhancement:

• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1 scoop protein powder
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice mix
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds
• 3/4 cup milk

Baking with pumpkin spice

Transform your autumn baking with tested techniques that maximize flavor while achieving perfect texture. These recipes showcase the versatility of your homemade spice blend.

Pumpkin spice cookies

For Chewy Cookies:

• Use brown sugar (creates moisture)
• Slightly underbake (10-12 minutes at 350°F)
• Add 1 tablespoon cornstarch to flour

For Crisp Cookies:

• Use granulated sugar
• Bake 13-15 minutes until edges are golden
• Roll in cinnamon-sugar before baking

Spice-Sugar Dusting:

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice mix
• Roll cookie dough balls in mixture before baking

Bake-Time Window: Watch for edges to set but centers still soft for chewy texture, or golden-brown edges for crisp results.

Pumpkin spice cake

Oil vs Butter Considerations:

• Oil-based cakes: More moist, tender crumb, longer shelf life
• Butter-based cakes: Richer flavor, more structure, better for layer cakes

Moisture Enhancement:

• Add 2 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Replace 1/4 cup liquid with pumpkin puree
• Spice ratio: Use 2-3 teaspoons pumpkin spice per standard cake recipe

Frosting Pairings:

• Cream cheese frosting: Classic choice with tangy balance
• Simple glaze: Powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla for lighter option
• Caramel buttercream: Amplifies fall flavors

Pumpkin pie with mix

Using DIY Mix in Traditional Pie:

• 2 teaspoons pumpkin spice mix per 15 oz pumpkin puree
• Custard setting cues: Center slightly jiggly, knife inserted 2 inches from edge comes clean
• Temperature guide: Internal temperature of 175°F ensures proper set

Texture Tips:

• Strain pumpkin puree for silky filling
• Temper eggs slowly to prevent curdling
• Pre-bake crust 10 minutes for crispier bottom

Nutrition & health basics

Understanding the nutritional aspects of pumpkin spice helps you make informed choices about sweeteners, portions, and dietary modifications.

Spice notes

Cinnamon: Rich in antioxidants, may help regulate blood sugar, provides warmth without heat

Ginger: Digestive support, anti-inflammatory properties, adds warming heat

Nutmeg: Provides sweetness perception, contains compounds that may support brain health

Cloves: Highest antioxidant content of common spices, adds depth and slight bitterness

These spices work synergistically, creating complex flavors while potentially offering various health benefits when consumed as part of a balanced diet.

Smart swaps

Lower-Sugar Syrup Options:

• Use stevia or monk fruit sweetener
• Reduce sugar by 1/3 and add extra vanilla
• Try sugar-free maple syrup as base

Milk Alternatives:

• Unsweetened almond milk: 30-50 calories per cup
• Oat milk: Naturally sweet, creamy texture
• Coconut milk: Rich texture, pairs well with spices

Serving Size Awareness:

• Standard coffee shop drinks are often 16-20 oz
• Home portions of 8-12 oz provide satisfaction with fewer calories
• Measure syrups and sweeteners rather than estimating

FAQs

What is pumpkin spice?

Pumpkin spice is a blend of warming spices—primarily cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves—traditionally used in pumpkin pie. Despite the name, it typically contains no actual pumpkin.

Does pumpkin spice have pumpkin?

No, traditional pumpkin spice contains no pumpkin. It’s named for its use in pumpkin pie, not because it contains the vegetable. Some commercial coffee shop versions may include pumpkin puree or flavoring.

How to make pumpkin spice?

Mix 3 tablespoons cinnamon, 2 teaspoons each ginger and nutmeg, and 1 teaspoon cloves. Store in an airtight container for up to 8 months. Adjust ratios to personal taste preference.

What’s the best pumpkin spice latte recipe at home?

Combine strong coffee with 2 tablespoons homemade pumpkin spice syrup, steamed milk, and foam. For syrup: simmer equal parts water and sugar with 2 tablespoons pumpkin spice mix for 5 minutes.

Pumpkin spice latte calories (how to reduce them)?

Standard PSLs contain 380-420 calories. Reduce by using unsweetened plant milk (save 80 calories), cutting syrup in half (save 60 calories), and skipping whipped cream (save 70-100 calories).

Starbucks PSL vs Dunkin pumpkin spice — what’s the difference?

Starbucks PSL is sweeter with dessert-like notes and real pumpkin puree (added 2015). Dunkin focuses on traditional spice flavors with less sweetness and no actual pumpkin, appealing to those wanting authentic pie spice taste.

Pumpkin spice syrup vs pumpkin syrup — which for coffee?

Pumpkin spice syrup contains the spice blend and works better for coffee drinks. Pumpkin syrup is made from actual pumpkin and has a milder, earthier flavor better suited for pancakes or desserts.

Can pumpkin spice go in chai and cold brew?

Absolutely! Use 1 tablespoon pumpkin spice syrup per 6 oz chai tea, or 2-3 tablespoons per 12 oz cold brew. The spices complement both beverages naturally.

How much pumpkin spice mix equals individual spices?

1 teaspoon pumpkin spice mix equals approximately 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon ginger, 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg, and a pinch of cloves.

How long does homemade pumpkin spice last?

Properly stored in an airtight container away from light and heat, homemade pumpkin spice maintains peak flavor for 6-8 months and remains safe to use for up to a year.