Fall is the time for pumpkins, cinnamon and pies.  Lots of pies …. apple, pumpkin, berry… you get the idea.  I have a love affair with the warm spices.  Those like cinnamon.  They have a wonderful aroma and can make you feel warm all over.  I use this spice not just for pumpkin pies, but apple pies and of course pumpkin bread.  Imagine a dash of this ontop of an eggnog latte… just saying…

Buying specialty spices can get very expensive, but if you use everyday spices and combine them you can save money and tweak the blend to your taste.  But once you make up a specialty spice what else can you use it for?  Here are seven ideas for using the pumpkin pie spice.

1. Add to your coffee.

Add to your coffee grounds and then brew as usual.  It adds a warmth to your morning cup of Joe.

2. Mix into whipped cream

Either add to homemade whipped cream or sprinkle in Cool Whip, then dollop on top of a yummy slice of apple or pumpkin pie.  (Maybe even a scoop into your cup of coffee?)

3. Make Sweet Spiced Nuts

4. Try it in pasta.

Imagine this with pumpkin ravioli….

5. Roast vegetables

Sprinkle over winter vegetables (like carrots, winter squash or sweet potatoes) before you roast.

6. Season Popcorn

Combine 3 tablespoons brown sugar, 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice and 1/2 teaspoon salt then sprinkle over freshly popped popcorn – be sure to coat all of the popcorn with this wonderful mixture!

7. Add to pancake batter

Add 1/2 teaspoon to each cup of batter.

Pumpkin Pie Spice Recipe:

Combine:

3 tablespoons cinnamon

2 teaspoons ground ginger

2 teaspoons nutmeg

1 1/2 teaspoons ground allspice

1 1/2 teaspoons ground cloves

Add all spices to a small jar and shake.  This combines the spices perfectly and then provides a perfect air tight place to store them.  I use use a small jelly size mason jar.