Apple Pie Spice

I know it’s fall when I see jars of pumpkin pie spice at the store. The cozy scent from this blend of different spices always makes me feel like I’m walking through piles of autumn leaves. Similar to pumpkin pie spice, apple pie spice is just as equally warm and cozy. It’s the perfect jar of spices for welcoming the change in season. 

Apple pie spice is a versatile blend of warm spices commonly used in baking — especially in recipes for apple pies and apple-based desserts. It’s simple to make your own at home with common pantry spices. Plus, it’s highly customizable, and makes a fantastic homemade gift.

My blend of apple pie spice has all the main ingredients, but adds a few more for depth.

• Ground cinnamon: Provides a sweet and spiced flavor.
• Brown sugar: Adds caramel-like sweetness to the blend.
• Ground ginger and ground cardamom: Add pleasant, citrus-like flavors.
• Ground allspice and ground cloves: Offer a slightly pungent and aromatic taste that creates a perfect balance. 

The amount really depends on the amount of apples you’re seasoning, but typically, 1 to 2 teaspoons of apple pie spice will season about 4 pounds of sliced apples (one pound of apples is about three medium-sized apples). Start with a small amount, so that you can add more later if desired.

Besides using it in apple pies and any sort of apple-forward desserts, I love using it in my coffee. Adding this blend of warm spices to my daily cup of Joe makes it taste like fall instantly. 

Here are some other ways to use it.

• Add it to ice cream. 
• Mix into pancake batter. 
• Sprinkle on warm apple cider (including the spiked ones!)
• Toss with cubed sweet potatoes and roast.