Out of Pumpkin Pie Spice? Try These 3 Easy Swaps
Run out of pumpkin pie spice mid-recipe? No worries. We've got 3 tried-and-tested substitutes that actually work. Whether you're making a quick weeknight dinner or baking something special, these alternatives will save your dish. The most popular swap is cinnamon + ginger + nutmeg + cloves, which works great in baking recipes. Each substitute below includes exact measurements and tips so you know exactly what to do.
⚡ Quick Answer (30 sec read)
Use Cinnamon + ginger + nutmeg + cloves instead. Mix 3 tsp cinnamon + 1 tsp ginger + ½ tsp nutmeg + ½ tsp cloves for 5 tsp pumpkin spice.
✅ 3 Tested Pumpkin Pie Spice Substitutes (With Exact Ratios)
1. Cinnamon + ginger + nutmeg + cloves
BakingMix 3 tsp cinnamon + 1 tsp ginger + ½ tsp nutmeg + ½ tsp cloves for 5 tsp pumpkin spice.
2. Apple pie spice
BakingUse 1:1 ratio. Very similar.
3. Cinnamon + allspice
BakingMix 1 tsp cinnamon + ¼ tsp allspice.
Tips for Substituting Pumpkin Pie Spice
When substituting pumpkin pie spice in baking, always consider how the swap affects moisture, fat content, and flavor. Start with the exact ratios given, then adjust in future batches if needed. For best results, bring refrigerated substitutes to room temperature before mixing.
What NOT to Do When Substituting Pumpkin Pie Spice
- xDon't use the same amount without checking the ratio - some substitutes are stronger or weaker than pumpkin pie spice.
- xDon't substitute in recipes where pumpkin pie spice is the star ingredient - the difference will be too noticeable.
- xDon't combine multiple substitutes at once - pick one and adjust from there.
Quick Substitution Ratios
| Substitute | Amount for 1 cup Pumpkin Pie Spice | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Cinnamon + ginger + nutmeg + cloves | Mix 3 tsp cinnamon + 1 tsp ginger + ½ tsp nutmeg + ½ tsp cloves for 5 tsp pumpkin spice | baking |
| Apple pie spice | Use 1:1 ratio | baking |
| Cinnamon + allspice | Mix 1 tsp cinnamon + ¼ tsp allspice | baking |
Safety Tips
- 1.Always check for allergies - if someone is allergic to pumpkin pie spice, they may also react to certain substitutes like nut-based alternatives.
- 2.When baking, substitutes can affect rising and texture. Test with a small batch first if making for an important occasion.
- 3.Check expiration dates on substitutes - using fresh ingredients ensures the best flavor and food safety.
Related for Pumpkin Pie Spice
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best substitute for pumpkin pie spice?
The best substitute for pumpkin pie spice is Cinnamon + ginger + nutmeg + cloves. Mix 3 tsp cinnamon + 1 tsp ginger + ½ tsp nutmeg + ½ tsp cloves for 5 tsp pumpkin spice. This works well in most recipes that call for pumpkin pie spice.
Can I use cinnamon instead of pumpkin pie spice?
Yes, cinnamon + ginger + nutmeg + cloves is an excellent substitute for pumpkin pie spice. Mix 3 tsp cinnamon + 1 tsp ginger + ½ tsp nutmeg + ½ tsp cloves for 5 tsp pumpkin spice.
What can I use instead of pumpkin pie spice in baking?
For baking, the best pumpkin pie spice substitutes are: Cinnamon + ginger + nutmeg + cloves, Apple pie spice, Cinnamon + allspice. These options will give you similar results in cakes, cookies, and other baked goods.
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