Even if you’re over it before it begins, you can’t deny that nothing says “Fall” more than the sweet aroma of Pumpkin Spice. So there’s no better way to start off the month of October than National Pumpkin Spice Day on the 1st.
Now, everyone has heard of pumpkin spice, but do you know what exactly is in it? First, you should know the name is misleading, because almost any “pumpkin” spice doesn’t contain any actual pumpkin. Instead, it’s a blend of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves and allspice. But since these are the spices that one typically uses when making pumpkin pie, that’s how that aromatic blend became “pumpkin spice.”
The spice is quite versatile and can be used to give a little autumnal kick to all manner of foods—dust it on waffles, over cinnamon rolls, on oatmeal, on a latte (whether it’s the pumpkin spice variety or not). And don’t forget pumpkin pie: If you’re making a homemade pie, you can use it with the your pureed pumpkin filling mix. Or, if you’re going with a store-bought pie, add a little whipped cream on top and some dashes of spice for extra zing.
You can buy pumpkin spice blend, sometimes sold as “pumpkin pie spice” at most groceries stores (Trader Joe’s version is popular), or, now that you know what’s in it, you can have a go at making your own by mixing the ingredients below and then storing in an air-tight container to keep it fresh. (Remember this is a base recipe, so adjust away, as these are distinct and strong spices that will hit taste buds differently.)
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
Or, you can just head over to your nearest specialty coffee house of choice and get yourself the now classic Pumpkin Spice Latte to warm your cockles and soothe your soul. Ah, welcome Fall!
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