Did You Know : Three Facts About Pumpkin Spice

For many pumpkin spice is the unofficial flavour of Autumn/Fall. This warm, cozy blend shows up in drinks, desserts, and even the candle aisle... but did you know?

1. There’s no pumpkin in pumpkin spice.
Despite the name, pumpkin spice typically contains cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves, with allspice sometimes included in some versions.

The blend was designed to complement the sweet, earthy flavour of pumpkin.

When you taste a “pumpkin spice” latte, you’re really tasting sweet baking spices that pair well with milk and sugar. Cinnamon is typically the dominant note, giving that familiar warm, earthy aroma.

2. Starbucks launched the Pumpkin Spice Latte in 2003.

Pumpkin Spice Lattes (PSL) quickly became the company’s most popular seasonal drink and now anchors Autumn/Fall menus across the coffee industry.

Many chains now release their own versions in late summer to meet the overwhelming demand, but the craze doesn’t just call Starbucks home; you can pick up a PSL at almost any coffee shop during the cozy season.

3. You can mix a reliable DIY pumpkin spice at home.

Home bakers often create a simple, balanced blend: for example, 3 tablespoons of cinnamon, 2 teaspoons of ginger, 2 teaspoons of nutmeg, 1 teaspoon of allspice, and 1 teaspoon of cloves.

Stir to combine and store in an airtight jar. This ratio keeps cinnamon in the lead while letting ginger and nutmeg shine, with clove and allspice adding depth.

Once you’ve got a good base, you can try experimenting with different ratios. For example, more ginger will brighten the overall flavour, while clove will soften it.

Yes, pumpkin season is here again … from pumpkin spice lattes to big Halloween decorations, this savoury orange fruit will be everywhere you look including this blog as I'm sure there will be more about pumpkins including recipes coming soon.

All the best Jan