Pumpkin Pie Spice is a blend including cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves, offering a complex autumnal flavor to dishes. Ground Cinnamon is a single spice with a sweet, woody aroma, used for a singular taste in both sweet and savory recipes.
Pumpkin Pie Spice is a blend that typically includes cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and sometimes allspice. It's designed to give a quintessentially warm, autumnal flavor to a variety of dishes, especially desserts.
Ground Cinnamon is a single spice derived from the bark of cinnamon trees. It has a sweet, woody aroma and is used in both sweet and savory dishes, bringing warmth and depth to recipes.
The primary difference lies in complexity: Pumpkin Pie Spice is a blend of several spices, offering multi-dimensional flavor, whereas Ground Cinnamon delivers a straightforward, singular taste. In terms of source, Pumpkin Pie Spice is a crafted mix, while Ground Cinnamon is a pure spice.
Best used in pumpkin pies, spiced cakes, and cookies. It adds a complex, layered flavor that is synonymous with fall desserts. Use it to create a harmonious blend in your sweet treats. Ideal for cinnamon rolls, apple pies, and snickerdoodles. It imparts a strong cinnamon note that stands out. Sprinkle it on top for a bold aroma or mix it into batters for a consistent flavor throughout.
A key ingredient in pumpkin spice lattes, chai blends, and mulled ciders. It gives beverages a warm, inviting complexity. Stir it in to infuse your drinks with the essence of autumn. Preferred in traditional hot cocoa, cinnamon tea, and eggnog. It provides a singular, sweet spice kick. Use a cinnamon stick as a stirrer or sprinkle ground cinnamon on top for a fragrant touch.
Great for adding to pumpkin pancakes, spice-infused oatmeal, and French toast batters. It brings a festive twist to your morning meals. Mix it into batters or toppings for a seasonal flavor. A classic for cinnamon oatmeal, toast, and granola. It provides a straightforward warmth and sweetness. Sprinkle it over dishes or incorporate it into recipes for a comforting start to the day.
Both Pumpkin Pie Spice and Ground Cinnamon are low in calories and can offer health benefits when used in moderation.
| Nutrient | Ground Cinnamon ( per Teaspoon ) | Pumpkin Pie Spice ( per Teaspoon ) |
|---|---|---|
| Fat | 0.0g | 0.3g |
| Sodium | 0mg | 0.6mg |
| Calcium | 26mg | 7mg |
| Protein | 0.1g | 0.1g |
| Calories | 6 | 6 |
| Carbohydrates | 2.1g | 1.4g |
While you can substitute them, the complexity of Pumpkin Pie Spice may alter the intended flavor of a recipe specifically calling for Ground Cinnamon.
Both are similar in health benefits, but Ground Cinnamon may have additional medicinal properties due to its pure form.
Yes, you can create a homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice blend by mixing Ground Cinnamon with spices like nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.
Pumpkin Pie Spice is typically preferred for its complex flavor profile designed specifically for pumpkin pies.
Pumpkin Pie Spice offers a blend of flavors from various spices, whereas Ground Cinnamon provides a singular, sweet-spicy taste.
