Pumpkin Spice has risen so rapidly in popularity over the last few years that it dominates everything from coffee drinks to social media hashtags. Once the public realized the flexibility of this blend, it started showing up everywhere. Most blends consist of cinnamon with a touch of ginger, nutmeg and cloves. Distinguishing any flavor but cinnamon is difficult. This pumpkin spice recipe adds more flavor complexity to the mix. It warms and comforts with the addition of allspice and chili (cayenne) pepper.
To add even more zest to your pumpkin spice mix, powder your own herbs. Cinnamon sticks and nutmeg can be grated on a nutmeg grater. Allspice berries, dried chili pepper fruits and cloves can be ground in a coffee grinder into powder. Dried ginger can be purchased in slices or c/s (cut and sift) form for more aromatic powder. Be sure to clean out your grinder thoroughly by running rice through it and then wiping out the unplugged grinder.
Use this spice blend in any recipe that calls for pumpkin spice or for cinnamon in general. Baked apple pastries, zucchini bread, granola or chocolate treats are good starts. This is an easy blend for children to make and give to family members in jars that that decorated themselves. Just watch that they wash their hands before touching their eyes.
Ingredients
- 9 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground nutmeg
- 4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 ground allspice
- 1/4 tsp ground cayenne chili pepper
- 1/2 tsp ground cardamom (optional)
Equipment
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 spoon
- a resealable container large enough to hold the finished product
- a label
Procedure
- Pour the herbs into the mixing bowl and gently stir them with a spoon.
- Pour the mix into a resealable container.
- Label the container with the name of the mix, ingredients, and date mixed.
Storage and Use
Makes 1/3 cup of the finished pumpkin spice blend. Keep your spice blend in a sealed jar with a festive label in a cool, dry place.
Stir a tablespoon of the spice mix into your latte or hot cocoa. Dash it on sliced apples or oranges. Sprinkle it on baked goods like pumpkin pie!
