Last Updated on October 16, 2023 by Toya
One essential ingredient that encapsulates the warmth and coziness of the season is apple pie spice. This versatile blend of aromatic spices is a must-have for any fall recipe, allowing you to infuse warm, sweet, and aromatic flavors into your favorite fall recipes.
This is my go-to apple pie spice recipe from scratch that is much like the real thing—without any of the bad stuff!
What is Apple Pie Spice?
Apple pie spice is a blend of ground spices that are commonly used to flavor apple pie and various other autumn dishes. Apple pie spice typically includes ingredients such as:
- Cinnamon: Cinnamon is the dominant spice in apple pie spice, providing a sweet, woody, and slightly spicy flavor.
- Nutmeg: Nutmeg contributes a slightly nutty and earthy taste, enhancing the overall complexity of the blend.
- Allspice: Allspice is reminiscent of a combination of cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg, offering a warm and slightly peppery flavor.
- Ginger: Ground ginger lends a subtle spiciness and warmth, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
The Optional Extras:
While the three ingredients mentioned above form the foundation of apple pie spice, you can personalize your blend by adding other complementary spices like:
- Cardamom: Cardamom introduces a hint of citrusy and floral notes, elevating the spice mix to a more exotic level.
These spices, when combined, create a mixture of flavors that add the most amazing flavors to fall recipes like pumpkin pie, spiced lattes, cookies, bread, and even savory dishes like roasted vegetables.
How to Make Apple Pie Spice
Now, let’s show you how to create your own apple pie spice blend.
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice (optional)
- 1 teaspoon cardamom (optional)
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, combine the ground cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and any optional spices you choose.
- Mix the spices thoroughly until they are evenly blended.
- Store your homemade apple pie spice in an airtight container or spice jar in a cool, dark place.
How to use apple pie spice
Here are some delicious ideas for using this spice blend:
Apple pie spice is a versatile blend of spices that can be used in a wide range of culinary applications, especially during the fall and holiday seasons. Here are some common uses for apple pie spice:
- Apple Pie: Of course, the most traditional use is in apple pie, enhancing the flavor of the filling.
- Baking: Use it in various baked goods such as apple muffins, apple crisps, apple turnovers, and apple tarts.
- Hot Beverages: Sprinkle it on top of apple cider.
- Breakfast Dishes: Add apple pie spice to oatmeal, pancake or waffle batter, or French toast for yummy fall breakfast recipes.
- Homemade Applesauce: Add apple pie spice to homemade applesauce to give it a warm and aromatic flavor.
Storing your homemade apple pie spice
Storing apple pie spice properly is essential to maintain its flavor and freshness. Here are some tips on how to store apple pie spice:
- Find an airtight container: Transfer the apple pie spice to an airtight container. This can be a glass or plastic container with a tight-sealing lid or a small spice jar. The container should be clean and dry.
- Place in a cool, dark place: Store the container in a cool, dark place, away from heat, light, and moisture. A pantry or a kitchen cabinet is usually a suitable location.
- Label the Container: To avoid confusion with other spice blends, label the container with the name “Apple Pie Spice” and the date of when you made or purchased it.
- Rotate Your Stock: If you don’t use apple pie spice frequently, consider making smaller batches to ensure you always have fresh spice on hand.
And, if you like this spice mix, you should also try my homemade pumpkin pie spice.
Apple Pie Spice Recipe
One essential ingredient that encapsulates the warmth and coziness of the season is apple pie spice. This versatile blend of aromatic spices is a must-have for any fall recipe, allowing you to infuse warm, sweet, and aromatic flavors into your favorite fall recipes.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice (optional)
- 1 teaspoon cardamom (optional)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the ground cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and any optional spices you choose.
- Mix the spices thoroughly until they are evenly blended.
- Store your homemade apple pie spice in an airtight container or spice jar in a cool, dark place.