Apple Pie Spice Recipe

Learn how to make an apple pie spice recipe to use in your fall baking recipes.  I use it for pies, desserts, and drinks.  This is an easy recipe, and making your own spice mix is cheaper than buying it premade.

Apple Pie Spice Mix Recipe

Picture this: the leaves are turning vibrant shades of red and gold, the air is crisp, and the warm aroma of apple pie fills your kitchen. 

What's the secret behind that irresistible scent? 

It's all about the apple pie spice blend. 

Although pumpkin spice gets more attention than apple spice, apple spice is wonderful in desserts and in drinks. 

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What is Apple Pie Spice?

Apple pie spice is the enchanting combination of flavors that elevates a simple apple pie to a mouthwatering masterpiece. 

At its core, it's a harmonious blend of warming spices that embrace the sweet, tart, and slightly tangy notes of apples. 

Apple pie spice is not the same as pumpkin pie spice, but it is similar.

Why Make Your Own Apple Pie Spice Mix Recipe?

Here's why I like making my own apple pie spice:

• Making your own apple pie spice blend offers an unparalleled advantage: complete control over the quality and freshness of each component. No more relying on pre-packaged blends with mysterious origins.
• As a savvy home cook, you'll appreciate the cost-effectiveness of DIY apple pie spice. It's a budget-friendly option that doesn't compromise on quality.
• One size doesn't fit all, especially when it comes to spice blends. Making your own allows you to tailor the blend to your unique taste, whether you prefer a touch of heat, extra sweetness, or a hint of exotic flair.

Where to Get Ingredients for Apple Pie Spice

The better ingredients you start with, the better your apple pie spice substitute will be.  I buy high quality spices in bulk to make my homemade spice mixes.

I like to buy from Mountain Rose Herbs, Grassroots Herb Supply, or Mountain Maus Remedies.

What Spices are in Apple Pie Spice?

There are several different variations of recipes to make an apple pie substitute.  Here are some spices that you can add to customize the flavor:

• Ground Cinnamon: The cornerstone of apple pie spice, ground cinnamon infuses warmth and sweetness into your blend. Choose the highest quality you can find for the best results.
• Ground Nutmeg: Nutmeg's earthy, nutty aroma complements cinnamon beautifully, adding depth and complexity to your spice mix.
• Ground Allspice: A lesser-known spice but no less important, ground allspice contributes a delightful hint of clove, cinnamon, and nutmeg, all rolled into one.
• Ground Cloves: With its pungent, slightly sweet profile, ground cloves provide a robust, aromatic punch to your blend.
• Ground Ginger: For those who crave a bit of zing, ground ginger offers a spicy, citrusy note that marries splendidly with the other spices.
• Ground Cardamom: Elevate your blend to exotic heights with the warm, floral notes of ground cardamom.
• Ground Mace: Mace, a sibling of nutmeg, delivers a milder, subtly sweeter flavor profile, perfect for those seeking a unique twist.
• Vanilla Bean Powder: Indulge your senses with a dash of vanilla bean powder, infusing your spice blend with a sweet, floral aroma. Learn how to make vanilla powder.

How to Store Homemade Apple Pie Spice

Spices will keep almost forever, but they can lose their potency over time.  Store in an airtight container out of light and extreme temperatures.  

I store my spices in pint mason jars with plastic lids.  I only make a few month's worth at a time, so the clear jars work for me.

How to Use Apple Pie Spice

Once you've perfected your blend, it's time to put it to good use. Explore how apple pie spice can transform your culinary creations, from classic apple pies to unexpected delights.

• Apple Pie: The most obvious use is in apple pie. Simply mix the spice into your apple filling before adding it to the pie crust. You can also sprinkle a bit on top of the pie before baking for extra flavor.
• Apple Crisp: Use apple pie spice in your apple crisp topping mixture, which typically includes oats, sugar, butter, and flour. It adds a cozy flavor to the crispy topping.
• Apple Sauce: Add a pinch of apple pie spice to homemade or store-bought applesauce. It'll give your applesauce a warm and comforting taste.  Here's how I make my applesauce for canning.
• Baked Apples: Core apples, sprinkle them with sugar and apple pie spice, and bake until tender. This simple dessert is delicious on its own or served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Muffins and Pancakes: Incorporate apple pie spice into your muffin or pancake batter for a delightful fall twist. You can also sprinkle some on top of pancakes or waffles before serving.
• Smoothies: Add a pinch of apple pie spice to your apple-based smoothies for a unique and warming flavor. It pairs well with yogurt, honey, and bananas.
• Cider: Stir apple pie spice into hot apple cider or cold apple juice for a warming autumn beverage. You can also use it as a rimming spice for apple cider cocktails.  Use in this easy hot apple cider recipe.
• Coffee: Use apple pie spice substitute in coffee drinks like this apple crisp macchiato recipe.
• Oatmeal: Sprinkle some apple pie spice over your morning oatmeal or overnight oats for a cozy and flavorful breakfast.  I use it in this Instant Pot apple oatmeal recipe.
• Yogurt: Mix a small amount of apple pie spice into plain or vanilla yogurt to make a spiced yogurt parfait with granola and fresh apples.
• Savory Dishes: While it's most commonly associated with sweet dishes, you can experiment with using apple pie spice in savory recipes, such as roasted butternut squash, sweet potato dishes, or as a seasoning for pork chops.

Apple Pie Spice Recipe Without Cardamom

• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon ground nutmeg
• 2 teaspoons ground allspice

How to Make Apple Pie Spice Mix Recipe

Step #1

Combine all ingredients in a bowl.  Stir well to mix.

Step #2

Use right away for recipes or store in an airtight container for up to a year.

You can easily double or triple the recipe to make more apple pie spice substitute.  Just make sure you mix well if you make a big batch.

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