Spice 101 is our series that will make you brave, then crave, a spice or blend you’ve never tried before — and offer enough tips and recipes to get it off your pantry shelf, and into your plate.

History

Pumpkin pie spice is a blend of warm, aromatic spices that were originally brought to Europe from Asia during the spice trade, starting as early as the Middle Ages. In colonial America, these spices became essential in cooking and baking, especially during the autumn and winter months when their warming qualities were most appreciated. Early settlers adopted pumpkin as a staple food because it was easy to grow and store, leading to the creation of spiced pumpkin dishes, which began appearing in cookbooks in the 17th and 18th centuries. However, the idea of "pumpkin pie spice" as a pre-mixed blend didn’t emerge until the 20th century.

Summary 

Our pumpkin pie spice is anything but basic—made of historically rare spices sourced from the renowned Spice Islands and beyond. Indonesian cinnamon lays the foundation with sweet, complex notes and a hint of citrus, while Vietnamese cinnamon adds bold intensity. Nutmeg offers earthy depth, balanced by the zesty bite of ginger. Jamaican allspice brings aromatic warmth, and mace adds a lighter, peppery sweetness. Orange peel’s citrusy zest balances the warmth, while cloves enhance the profile with a sweet-spicy flavor. A touch of Indian cayenne provides a subtle kick, adding a lingering warmth that makes our blend distinctive.

Ingredients 

Indonesian Cinnamon, Vietnamese Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Ginger Powder, Jamaican Allspice, Mace, Orange Peel, Cloves, Indian Cayenne.

Why We Love It 

We love our pumpkin pie spice because it captures the essence of fall. The blend’s versatility is a big part of its charm—it's not just for pumpkin pie anymore. A dash of this spice instantly adds warmth and depth to any dish, making it a kitchen staple during the cooler months. We especially love it in coffee and overnight oats!

The More You Know

Did you know that the first recorded recipe for pumpkin pie dates back to the 17th century? It was more of a pumpkin-filled custard than the spiced pie we enjoy today, but the love for pumpkin-flavored treats has clearly stood the test of time!