Pumpkin Pie Spice Desserts: Beyond the Pie – Delicious Recipes for Every Craving

Pumpkin pie spice isn’t just for pumpkin pie anymore! This aromatic blend of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves can elevate a wide range of desserts, adding warmth, depth, and that quintessential autumnal flavor. If you’re looking to expand your pumpkin spice repertoire beyond the traditional pie, you’ve come to the right place. This article is packed with delicious and easy-to-follow recipes that will satisfy your pumpkin spice cravings all season long. Get ready to bake some magic!

What is Pumpkin Pie Spice?

Before diving into the recipes, let’s quickly understand what makes pumpkin pie spice so special. It’s a pre-mixed blend of spices, typically consisting of:

* **Cinnamon:** The dominant spice, providing warmth and sweetness.
* **Ginger:** Adds a spicy and slightly pungent note.
* **Nutmeg:** Contributes a warm, nutty flavor.
* **Cloves:** Offers a strong, aromatic, and slightly sweet taste.
* **Allspice (optional):** Some blends include allspice for an extra layer of complexity.

While you can buy pre-made pumpkin pie spice at most grocery stores, it’s incredibly easy (and often cheaper!) to make your own. This allows you to customize the blend to your liking. A common ratio is:

* 4 parts ground cinnamon
* 2 parts ground ginger
* 1 part ground nutmeg
* 1 part ground cloves

Feel free to adjust the amounts to suit your taste preferences. Store your homemade pumpkin pie spice in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.

Recipe 1: Pumpkin Pie Spice Cookies

These soft and chewy pumpkin pie spice cookies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. They’re perfect for an afternoon treat, a holiday gathering, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
* ½ teaspoon baking soda
* ¼ teaspoon salt
* ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
* ¾ cup granulated sugar
* ¾ cup packed brown sugar
* 1 large egg
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

**Instructions:**

1. **Preheat and Prep:** Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, and salt.
3. **Cream Butter and Sugars:** In a large bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. **Add Egg and Vanilla:** Beat in egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. **Gradually Add Dry Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. **Drop by Rounded Tablespoons:** Drop by rounded tablespoons onto the prepared baking sheets.
7. **Bake:** Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
8. **Cool:** Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

**Tips and Variations:**

* **Add Chocolate Chips:** Stir in ½ cup of chocolate chips (milk, semi-sweet, or dark) for an extra indulgent treat.
* **Frosting:** Frost the cooled cookies with cream cheese frosting or a simple glaze for added sweetness and flavor.
* **Nuts:** Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough for a crunchy texture.
* **Storage:** Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Recipe 2: Pumpkin Pie Spice Muffins

These moist and flavorful pumpkin pie spice muffins are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a quick snack. They’re easy to make and can be customized with various toppings and fillings.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
* 1 teaspoon baking powder
* ½ teaspoon baking soda
* ½ teaspoon salt
* 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
* ½ cup granulated sugar
* ½ cup packed brown sugar
* ½ cup vegetable oil
* 2 large eggs
* ½ cup milk
* ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

**Instructions:**

1. **Preheat and Prep:** Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease well.
2. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a large bowl, whisk together flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. **Combine Wet Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract.
4. **Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:** Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. **Fill Muffin Cups:** Fill the muffin cups about ¾ full.
6. **Bake:** Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. **Cool:** Let the muffins cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

**Tips and Variations:**

* **Streusel Topping:** Add a streusel topping made with flour, butter, sugar, and pumpkin pie spice for extra flavor and texture.
* **Cream Cheese Filling:** Swirl a small amount of cream cheese filling (made with cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract) into the batter before baking.
* **Chocolate Chips:** Stir in ½ cup of chocolate chips for a chocolatey twist.
* **Nuts:** Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for added crunch.
* **Storage:** Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Recipe 3: Pumpkin Pie Spice Blondies

These chewy and fudgy pumpkin pie spice blondies are a delightful alternative to brownies. They’re packed with flavor and incredibly easy to make.

**Ingredients:**

* ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
* 1 cup packed brown sugar
* 1 large egg
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 cup all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
* ½ teaspoon baking powder
* ¼ teaspoon salt
* ½ cup white chocolate chips (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. **Preheat and Prep:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
2. **Combine Wet Ingredients:** In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter and brown sugar until well combined.
3. **Add Egg and Vanilla:** Beat in egg and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, and salt.
5. **Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. **Stir in White Chocolate Chips (Optional):** Stir in white chocolate chips, if desired.
7. **Pour into Pan:** Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
8. **Bake:** Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached.
9. **Cool:** Let the blondies cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and serve.

**Tips and Variations:**

* **Add Toasted Pecans:** Sprinkle toasted pecans on top of the blondies before baking for added crunch and flavor.
* **Swirl with Pumpkin Butter:** Swirl a tablespoon of pumpkin butter into the batter before baking for an even more intense pumpkin flavor.
* **Caramel Drizzle:** Drizzle caramel sauce over the cooled blondies for a decadent treat.
* **Storage:** Store the blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Recipe 4: Pumpkin Pie Spice Latte (Homemade)

Skip the coffee shop and make your own delicious pumpkin pie spice latte at home! This recipe is easy, customizable, and tastes just as good (if not better) than the store-bought version.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
* ¼ cup strong brewed coffee or 2 shots of espresso
* 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
* 1-2 tablespoons maple syrup or brown sugar (adjust to taste)
* ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
* Whipped cream (optional)
* Extra pumpkin pie spice for dusting (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a small saucepan, combine milk, pumpkin puree, maple syrup (or brown sugar), and pumpkin pie spice.
2. **Heat and Whisk:** Heat over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture is warmed through and slightly frothy. Be careful not to boil.
3. **Add Coffee/Espresso:** Remove from heat and stir in the brewed coffee or espresso.
4. **Pour and Top:** Pour the latte into a mug. Top with whipped cream (if desired) and dust with extra pumpkin pie spice.

**Tips and Variations:**

* **Make it Iced:** For an iced latte, combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass filled with ice.
* **Add Vanilla Extract:** Add ¼ teaspoon of vanilla extract for extra flavor.
* **Use Pumpkin Spice Syrup:** Substitute maple syrup or brown sugar with pumpkin spice syrup for a more intense pumpkin spice flavor.
* **Froth the Milk:** Use a milk frother to create a richer and creamier latte.
* **Vegan Option:** Use non-dairy milk and maple syrup to make this latte vegan.

Recipe 5: Pumpkin Pie Spice French Toast

Transform your ordinary French toast into a fall-inspired delight with pumpkin pie spice! This recipe adds warmth and flavor to a classic breakfast dish.

**Ingredients:**

* 6 slices of bread (challah, brioche, or Texas toast work well)
* 2 large eggs
* ½ cup milk
* 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
* 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
* 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
* ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
* Butter or oil for cooking
* Maple syrup and powdered sugar for serving (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. **Whisk Together Wet Ingredients:** In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, pumpkin puree, sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract.
2. **Soak Bread:** Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, soaking for a few seconds on each side.
3. **Cook French Toast:** Heat a lightly oiled griddle or frying pan over medium heat. Cook the French toast for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
4. **Serve:** Serve immediately with maple syrup, powdered sugar, and any other desired toppings.

**Tips and Variations:**

* **Use Different Breads:** Experiment with different types of bread to find your favorite.
* **Add Cinnamon Sugar:** Sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top of the French toast while it’s cooking for extra sweetness and flavor.
* **Top with Fruit:** Top with fresh fruit, such as sliced apples, pears, or bananas.
* **Make a French Toast Casserole:** For a larger batch, bake the soaked bread in a casserole dish until golden brown and puffed up.

Recipe 6: Pumpkin Pie Spice Oatmeal

Start your day with a warm and comforting bowl of pumpkin pie spice oatmeal. This recipe is healthy, filling, and packed with flavor.

**Ingredients:**

* ½ cup rolled oats
* 1 cup milk or water
* 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
* 1-2 tablespoons maple syrup or brown sugar (adjust to taste)
* ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
* Pinch of salt
* Chopped nuts, seeds, or fruit for topping (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a small saucepan, combine rolled oats, milk or water, pumpkin puree, maple syrup (or brown sugar), pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
2. **Cook Oatmeal:** Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the oatmeal is cooked through and creamy, stirring occasionally.
3. **Serve:** Pour the oatmeal into a bowl and top with chopped nuts, seeds, or fruit, if desired.

**Tips and Variations:**

* **Use Steel-Cut Oats:** Steel-cut oats will take longer to cook but will have a chewier texture.
* **Add Protein:** Add a scoop of protein powder or a dollop of Greek yogurt for extra protein.
* **Make it Vegan:** Use non-dairy milk and maple syrup to make this oatmeal vegan.
* **Add Dried Fruit:** Add raisins, cranberries, or chopped dates to the oatmeal while it’s cooking for added sweetness and texture.

Recipe 7: Pumpkin Pie Spice Energy Bites

These no-bake pumpkin pie spice energy bites are the perfect healthy and delicious snack. They’re packed with nutrients and flavor, making them ideal for a quick energy boost.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 cup rolled oats
* ½ cup peanut butter (or other nut butter)
* ¼ cup honey or maple syrup
* ¼ cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
* 2 tablespoons chia seeds or flax seeds
* 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
* ¼ cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine all ingredients.
2. **Mix Well:** Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
3. **Chill:** Cover the bowl and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the mixture to firm up.
4. **Roll into Balls:** Roll the mixture into bite-sized balls.
5. **Store:** Store the energy bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

**Tips and Variations:**

* **Add Protein Powder:** Add a scoop of protein powder for an extra protein boost.
* **Use Different Nut Butters:** Experiment with different nut butters, such as almond butter or cashew butter.
* **Add Dried Cranberries:** Add dried cranberries for a sweet and tangy flavor.
* **Roll in Coconut:** Roll the energy bites in shredded coconut for a pretty presentation.

Recipe 8: Pumpkin Pie Spice Fudge

This creamy and decadent pumpkin pie spice fudge is a surprisingly easy treat to make. It’s perfect for gifting or enjoying yourself.

**Ingredients:**

* 3 cups granulated sugar
* ¾ cup (1 ½ sticks) unsalted butter
* ¾ cup evaporated milk
* 1 (7 ounce) jar marshmallow creme
* 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Pan:** Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. **Combine Sugar, Butter, and Milk:** In a heavy saucepan, combine sugar, butter, and evaporated milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a rolling boil.
3. **Boil for 5 Minutes:** Continue to boil for 5 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. **Remove from Heat:** Remove from heat and stir in marshmallow creme, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. **Add Nuts (Optional):** Stir in chopped nuts, if desired.
6. **Pour into Pan:** Pour the fudge into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
7. **Chill:** Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
8. **Cut into Squares:** Cut the fudge into squares and serve.

**Tips and Variations:**

* **Use White Chocolate:** Add white chocolate chips to the fudge for extra creaminess and sweetness.
* **Add a Swirl:** Swirl in pumpkin butter or caramel sauce for a more complex flavor.
* **Make it Vegan:** Unfortunately, traditional fudge recipes rely heavily on dairy. A vegan version would require significant recipe alterations, often involving coconut milk or other substitutes to achieve a similar texture and richness.

Recipe 9: Pumpkin Pie Spice Scones

These flaky and tender pumpkin pie spice scones are perfect for a weekend brunch or a special treat. They’re easy to make and can be customized with various glazes and toppings.

**Ingredients:**

* 2 cups all-purpose flour
* ¼ cup granulated sugar
* 1 tablespoon baking powder
* ½ teaspoon salt
* 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
* ½ cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
* ¾ cup heavy cream
* 1 large egg, beaten (for brushing)

**Instructions:**

1. **Preheat and Prep:** Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and pumpkin pie spice.
3. **Cut in Butter:** Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. **Add Cream:** Gradually add the heavy cream, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. **Shape and Cut:** Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead a few times to bring it together. Pat the dough into a 1-inch thick circle. Use a sharp knife or a biscuit cutter to cut out scones.
6. **Brush with Egg:** Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet and brush the tops with beaten egg.
7. **Bake:** Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. **Cool:** Let the scones cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

**Tips and Variations:**

* **Add Dried Cranberries or Raisins:** Stir in dried cranberries or raisins to the dough for added sweetness and texture.
* **Make a Glaze:** Drizzle the cooled scones with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk or lemon juice.
* **Add Chopped Nuts:** Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the dough for added crunch.
* **Serve with Clotted Cream and Jam:** For a truly decadent treat, serve the scones with clotted cream and jam.

Recipe 10: Pumpkin Pie Spice Popcorn

Add a festive twist to your favorite snack with pumpkin pie spice popcorn! This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for movie night.

**Ingredients:**

* 8 cups popped popcorn
* 2 tablespoons melted butter
* 2 tablespoons brown sugar
* 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
* Pinch of salt

**Instructions:**

1. **Pop the Popcorn:** Pop the popcorn using your preferred method (air popper, stovetop, or microwave).
2. **Combine Butter, Sugar, and Spice:** In a small bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
3. **Drizzle and Toss:** Drizzle the butter mixture over the popped popcorn and toss to coat evenly.
4. **Serve:** Serve immediately.

**Tips and Variations:**

* **Add Chocolate Chips:** Add chocolate chips to the popcorn for a sweet and salty treat.
* **Add Caramel Sauce:** Drizzle caramel sauce over the popcorn for extra decadence.
* **Add Nuts:** Add chopped nuts to the popcorn for added crunch.
* **Use a Different Sweetener:** Substitute brown sugar with maple syrup or honey.

Conclusion

Pumpkin pie spice is a versatile ingredient that can elevate a wide variety of desserts beyond the traditional pie. These recipes offer a delicious and easy way to enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of fall. From cookies and muffins to lattes and popcorn, there’s a pumpkin pie spice treat for every craving. So, get baking and enjoy the season!

Important Considerations for Recipe Success

While these recipes are designed to be easy and accessible, here are some key considerations for ensuring success:

* **Fresh Spices:** Use fresh, high-quality spices for the best flavor. Spices lose their potency over time, so replace them every 6-12 months.
* **Accurate Measurements:** Accurate measurements are crucial for baking. Use measuring cups and spoons specifically designed for baking.
* **Room Temperature Ingredients:** Unless otherwise specified, use room temperature ingredients (especially butter and eggs) for better mixing and a more even texture.
* **Don’t Overmix:** Overmixing can lead to tough baked goods. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
* **Oven Temperature:** Ensure your oven is accurately calibrated. Use an oven thermometer to check the temperature.
* **Proper Cooling:** Allow baked goods to cool completely before frosting or serving to prevent them from becoming soggy.
* **Storage:** Store baked goods in airtight containers to maintain their freshness.

By following these tips and the detailed instructions in each recipe, you’ll be well on your way to creating delicious and memorable pumpkin pie spice desserts. Happy baking!