11 Ways to Embrace Everything Pumpkin Spice

Table of Contents

1 11 Ways to Embrace Everything Pumpkin Spice
2 Where Does Pumpkin Spice and Everything Nice Come From? (Yes, We Americans Are Obsessed!)
3 Why Do People Put Pumpkin Spice in Everything?
4 Is Pumpkin Spice Just Allspice?
5 Why Is Pumpkin Spice So Expensive?
6 Does Pumpkin Spice Have Pumpkin in It?

I created this list to infuse your life with everything pumpkin spice this beautiful autumn season. I’ll continue to update this list as time goes on … and I find (or make) more awesome pumpkin spice stuff!

11 Ways to Embrace Everything Pumpkin Spice

Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a curious newbie, get ready to immerse yourself in everything pumpkin spice with these 11 fabulous things.

Where Does Pumpkin Spice and Everything Nice Come From? (Yes, We Americans Are Obsessed!)

Starbucks is created the pumpkin spice trend that has swept across the globe. The company introduced the Pumpkin Spice Latte (#PSL) in 2003 as a seasonal drink, and it quickly exploded into a full (fall?) craze.

The PSL was the result of months of experimentation and testing by Starbucks’ research and development team. The goal was to create a drink that captured the essence of autumn, and the PSL, with its warm, sweet, and spicy flavors, perfectly fit the bill.

The drink combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove with the sweetness of pumpkin and the robustness of espresso, topped with a dollop of whipped cream.

In my opinion, the PSL rides on our already-obsession with apples (and apple sauce with cinnamon) and pumpkin pies.

Anyway, as the PSL’s fame grew, so did the demand for all things pumpkin spice. Companies from various industries, including food, beverage, and even cosmetics, began to introduce their own pumpkin spice products. (Ahem, Target!!!)

Today, the PSL is not just a drink; it’s a cultural icon, and the pumpkin spice trend it inspired shows no signs of slowing down. You can now find everything pumpkin spice pretty much everywhere and in everything.

Why Do People Put Pumpkin Spice in Everything?

IMHO, the answer lies in the comforting, nostalgic feelings that pumpkin spice evokes. The blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves brings back memories of family gatherings, hearty meals, and cozy autumn evenings.

The scent of pumpkin spice is warm and inviting, making it the perfect addition to everything from food and drinks to home decor. The taste is equally appealing, offering a balance of sweet and spicy that tantalizes the taste buds. With everything pumpkin spice, it’s easy to immerse oneself in the spirit of fall.

Is Pumpkin Spice Just Allspice?

A common misconception is that pumpkin spice is just allspice. In reality, pumpkin spice is a blend of several spices, including cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.

Allspice, on the other hand, is a single spice that comes from the berries of the Pimenta dioica tree. While allspice does have a flavor profile that is similar to a combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, it is not the same as pumpkin spice.

Why Is Pumpkin Spice So Expensive?

With everything in marketing, the price meets the demand. Companies can charge whatever they want … because it doesn’t seem to slow down. I dare to guess that PSL season is almost as big as Christmas.

Does Pumpkin Spice Have Pumpkin in It?

No. One might think that everything pumpkin spice contains actual pumpkin, but this is not the case. Pumpkin spice is named for its use in pumpkin pies, not for its ingredients. The blend of spices used in pumpkin spice is meant to complement the flavor of pumpkin, not to mimic it.

This is why you can enjoy everything pumpkin spice, even if you’re not a fan of actual pumpkins. The warm, spicy flavor of pumpkin spice pairs well with a variety of foods and drinks, making it a versatile addition to any fall menu.

Ways to Embrace Everything Pumpkin Spice

Whether you're a die-hard fan or a curious newbie, get ready to immerse yourself in everything pumpkin spice.

Homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice Blend Recipe

It's just crazy how many people love pumpkin spice. Maybe it's the cinnamon, maybe it's Starbucks. Who knows? Whatever the case, this personal pumpkin pie spice blend allows you to adjust the proportions to your liking, creating a perfect mix. So you can take part of the craze in a DIY kind of way.
Easy Recipe for Pumpkin Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

These cupcakes are an absolute fall delight, guaranteed to make you fall in love with pumpkin spice all over again. The tangy cream cheese frosting beautifully complements the sweet, earthy tones of the cupcake, creating an irresistible treat.
Everything Pumpkin Spice Cupcake Picks & Wrappers

My very own kawaii design, perfect for the pumpkin spice cupcakes (above). Comes with 4 different designs, 12 per sheet.
Pumpkin Spice Bundt Cake Recipe with Chocolate Chips

This gorgeous cake is perfect paired with coffee or tea. It has a light dusting of powdered sugar, so it's not overly sweet. It can be the centerpiece of your Thanksgiving meal ... or for just about anytime at all.
Fireball Cinnamon Whisky Pumpkin Pie

No Everything Pumpkin Spice list would be complete without a pumpkin pie recipe. Update the classic version with a fiery kick, compliments of Fireball Cinnamon Whisky.
How to Make Painted Gourds

Speaking of centerpieces, try this one out. While it's not specifically "pumpkin spice" related, sprinkle some of that homemade pumpkin pie spice underneath the gourds will give you a delicious PSL smell in your house.
Pumpkin Spice Cookies

OMG these look moist and delightful. I think cookies make the perfect size snack. That is, unless you eat them all.
Pumpkin Spice Latte

I don't think any pumpkin spice list would be complete without the drink that started it all.
Exfoliating Pumpkin Spice Sugar Scrub

Pumpkin spice isn't just for eating and drinking. I imagine you'd smell heavenly after using some of this stuff.
Pumpkin Spice French Toast

This sounds great for the day after Thanksgiving or Halloween.
Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins

You had me at cream cheese.