Fall’s Favorite Flavor: Pumpkin Spice 101

For the last decade or so, there is one fool-proof way to determine the exact moment summer is over and we’ve successfully moved into fall. No, it’s not checking the calendar, and it’s not announced on the weather channel. No, it’s not the dropping temperatures either…

Even if you live in one of those places where it is still hot and humid, you too will know exactly the moment fall arrives. It’s that moment you enter a shopping mall (or any place that has anything for sale) and see rows and displays of EVERYTHING PUMPKIN SPICE!

Remember Bubba from the classic ‘Forest Gump’ movie? He was probably the most enthusiastic shrimp connoisseur there ever was… America loves everything pumpkin-spiced for a short few weeks of fall with the same passion Bubba loved shrimp!

...pumpkin spice latte, pumpkin spice gelato, pumpkin spice Cheerios, pumpkin spice Bailey’s, pumpkin spice KitKats, pumpkin spice protein bars, pumpkin spice yogurt, pumpkin spice chai mix, pumpkin spice maple syrup, pumpkin spice hot chocolate, pumpkin spice granola, pumpkin spice pancake mix, pumpkin spice soft caramels, pumpkin spice Captain Morgan, pumpkin spice cheese, pumpkin spice almond milk, dairy-free pumpkin spice cream cheese, pumpkin spice pecan butter… and that’s just a small fraction of seasonal products from the grocery section… let’s not even start on the candles and the rest.

The truth is, there’s so much pumpkin spice everything around, it became somewhat controversial to enjoy this majestic flavor openly. You know what, we are not afraid to say WE LOVE PUMPKIN SPICE! And if for some reason you think it’s ‘basic’ to like it then it’s probably because you haven’t tried making your very own homemade mouth-watering, out-of-this-world delicious pumpkin spice treats!

We understand, and it’s ok. We got you now!

Keep on scrolling and explore these wonderfully delicious, seasonal spiced up recipes, full of our favorite fall flavor - pumpkin spice! We got a little bit of everything for you: a couple of seasonal classic pies, a couple of recipes with a spiced-up twist, and a few of unlikely pumpkin spice combinations you are guaranteed to fall in love with!

What Is Pumpkin Spice?

Then came the spice boom. By the 1950s, big brands were selling “pumpkin pie spice” jars for home bakers everywhere. Fast-forward to 2003, when Starbucks launched the Pumpkin Spice Latte—and the world collectively lost its mind. The PSL wasn’t just a drink; it was the official start of fall. Suddenly, “pumpkin spice” meant cozy sweaters, crunchy leaves, and all things warm and nostalgic.

Today, you’ll find it in cookies, candles, beers, popcorn, and even dog treats. Love it or laugh at it, pumpkin spice has earned its crown as the scent and flavor of the season. And while there are thousands of “best pumpkin pie” recipes out there, this one earns the title Perfect Pumpkin Pie for a reason—it truly captures everything we love about fall in a single, golden slice.

How to make Pumpkin Spice at home?

• 3 Tbsp ground cinnamon
  
• 2 tsp ground ginger
  
• 2 tsp ground nutmeg
  
• 1 ½ tsp ground allspice
  
• 1 ½ tsp ground cloves

We had to include the one and only, the beverage that started the craze, the seasonal latte everyone loves (even if they don’t admit to it), the magnificent pumpkin spice latte!
This homemade dairy-free version will not disappoint you! It’s comforting, delicious, and will satisfy your every craving.

It has always been so hard to choose a favorite seasonal pie… Which one to make for Thanksgiving? Pumpkin pie or potato pie? It’s even more difficult to decide which slice to eat when both of those are on the festive table… Just end the struggle and make this pie instead! Combine both amazing flavors into one!

These cupcakes are must-bake cupcakes this fall! They are simply scrumptious! Moist, spicy, and just the right amount of sweetness. Pumpkin spice and everything nice indeed. Oh, and they are super easy to make as well!

Pumpkin spice for breakfast? Yes! Make your Sunday breakfast or brunch at home extra warm and special with this pumpkin spice french toast! That’s the perfect seasonal twist on an all-time favorite!

If you are more of a cookie person, then these chewy and soft pumpkin spice cookies are for you! You can make these fragrant bites of pumpkiny goodness in 25 minutes! And they are gluten-free and low carb! Enjoy the Ultimate guilt-free seasonal cookies!

Now let’s get a bit more creative and decadent with our pumpkin spice desserts. Look at this beautiful kitchen masterpiece. Ruffled layers of golden crispy fillo dough surrounded by the sweet pumpkin custard…. This pie is just too good! It’s vegan-friendly and it is much easier to make it than you might imagine!

Here’s a seasonal weekend breakfast special pumpkin treat for you if you like pancakes! These have everything to become your new favorite pancakes, they are incredibly easy and will only take 20 minutes of your time.

Pumpkin spice is the perfect spice for muffins! The hug-me smell alone is a good enough reason to bake these warm and spiced pumpkin muffins! And after you take your first bite, you’ll fall in love with that wondrous season all over again.

Pumpkin spice cheesecake is a must if you are into decadent cheesy desserts with a spicy twist. It could even become your alternative to pumpkin pie this year!

Here’s one pumpkin spice dessert you probably haven’t considered making before. Pumpkin spice macarons! These taste heavenly! The combination of the tender crumbly texture of classic macarons with spicy-sweet flavor is absolutely fantastic!

Start your day the delicious way! These chocolate-covered pumpkin breakfast bars blend hearty oats, cozy spices, and a touch of indulgence for the ultimate fall grab-and-go treat.

A pumpkin dish that proves it’s not all about the sweets! This hearty, spiced creation brings cozy curry vibes and wholesome comfort to your table—a savory sidekick that perfectly balances out all those pumpkin desserts.

Pumpkin spice snack you might not have tried yet—Pumpkin Spice Granola! Crunchy, nutty, and just the right amount of sweet, it’s absolutely irresistible. Perfect for topping yogurt, smoothie bowls, or just grabbing a handful straight from the jar!