Warm, aromatic, and full of cozy holiday flavor, this homemade gingerbread spice blend brings all the comforting notes of the season into one jar.
It’s the secret behind those classic gingerbread cookies and spiced loaves, and it even transforms warm drinks into festive treats.
Making your own gingerbread spice takes just minutes and gives you full control over the flavor intensity. Next time you find yourself reaching out for a store-bought mix, hold off and try this homemade recipe instead.
With just a few pantry staples, you’ll have a fresher, more balanced spice mix than any pre-mixed jar, and you can use it right away in my air fryer gingerbread men cookies!
The best part…
- It’s customizable. You can adjust the ginger or cloves to suit your taste.
- It uses everyday spices you probably already have making it budget friendly.
- Perfect for cookies, cakes, pancakes, or your morning coffee.
- Easy because of the use of ground spices. Everything blends better with just a whisk or fork.
Ingredients
- Ground Cinnamon: The warm, sweet base that ties all the spices together.
- Ground Ginger: Adds a bold, zesty kick that defines classic gingerbread flavor.
- Ground Nutmeg: Offers gentle warmth and a hint of sweetness.
- Ground Cloves: Brings depth and a touch of spice — a little goes a long way.
- Ground Allspice: Rounds out the blend with subtle peppery notes.
* Need to print out this recipe? You’ll find a printable recipe card at the end of this post. Enjoy!
How to make gingerbread spice
In a small bowl, add cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice.
Whisk well until evenly combined.
Transfer the blend to a clean, airtight jar or spice container.
Store in a cool, dry spot for up to 6 months. Shake before each use to refresh the aroma.
What to use gingerbread spice in
This blend works beautifully in any recipe that calls for a warm, spiced flavor. I use it in;
Gingerbread cookies or loaf cakes
Waffles, pancakes, or oatmeal
Hot chocolate or spiced lattes
Homemade sugar scrubs or DIY holiday gifts.
Storage and shelf life
Store your spice mix in a tightly sealed jar, away from heat and sunlight. It stays fresh for about 6 months, but you’ll get the best flavor within the first 3 months.
Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh ground spices for the best aroma.
- Label the jar with the date so you know when to refresh it.
- If you prefer a milder flavor, cut the cloves and allspice in half.
- Double the batch for easy holiday baking or gifting.
FAQs
Both blends use cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice, but the ratios are very different. Gingerbread spice is heavier on ginger and cloves, giving it a stronger, spicier flavor that pairs well with molasses.
Pumpkin pie spice, on the other hand, has more cinnamon and less ginger, creating a softer, sweeter profile suited for pies and lattes. Check out our pumpkin spice blend guide for a full recipe.
Yes, but expect a bolder flavor. For a closer match to pumpkin spice, reduce the ginger slightly and add a bit more cinnamon.
Start with 1 tablespoon per batch of cookies or cake, then adjust based on taste.
It already is! This mix contains only ground spices — no added sugar or fillers.
Homemade gingerbread spice blend is a quick, aromatic mix that brings cozy holiday flavor to everything from baked goods to morning coffee.
With just five ingredients, you can skip store-bought versions and enjoy a fresher, bolder spice mix that’s easy to make at home.
Use it in your holiday baking or in warm spiced drinks. It’s also a perfect addition to DIY holiday gifts for friends and family.
Happy mixing!
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Gingerbread Spice Blend
Equipment
- Spice jar
Ingredients
- ¼ cup ground cinnamon (4 Tablespoons)
- ¼ cup ground ginger (4 Tablespoons)
- 2 tablespoons ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon ground cloves
- 1 tablespoon ground allspice
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice.
- Whisk until evenly mixed and no clumps remain.
- Transfer to an airtight jar or spice container.
- Store in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months. Shake or stir before each use.
Notes
- Flavor Profile: Bold and aromatic with a strong ginger-clove punch, ideal for gingerbread cookies, loaf cakes, or spiced drinks.
- Adjusting Spice Levels: For a milder blend, reduce the cloves to 2 teaspoons. For extra warmth, add ½ teaspoon more allspice.
- To Substitute for Pumpkin Spice: Use 1 tablespoon of this blend in place of pumpkin spice for a stronger, spicier flavor.
- Storage Tip: Keep away from heat and sunlight to preserve freshness and potency.
Nutrition
