Pumpkin Spice, Apple Pie Spice, And Chai - Oh My!

This the time of year when all the buzz is Pumpkin Spice EVERYTHING!!!! Now me, I do love the spices of the season, but what's the difference between pumpkin spice, apple pie spice, and chai? They're all really close, right? So why the fuss?

The spice array in these wonderful blends are very similar. But let's start by making one thing clear - chai means tea in Hindi. In the US we tend to call this aromatic and delicious tea chai tea. But we're saying tea tea. This warming drink is technically called Masala Chai. Families all have their own blends in India, so there is a slight variation. But, for the purposes of this discussion - we'll stick with calling it the familiar chai. Have I confused you enough? Good, let's continue.

All of these spice blends have a few seasonings in common. The most pronounced being Cinnamon. Oh, I LOVE Cinnamon. The smell alone can warm your spirit. The health benefits are numerous. It can help lower blood sugar and help with stomach issues. It also has antioxidant, antibiotic, and anti-inflammatory properties. It's the subtle differences and slight changes that make each unique.

The much beloved Pumpkin Spice actually has no pumpkin in it. The blend is basically cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and clove. Sometimes allspice is included to add extra depth. Pumpkin Spice leans heavily towards the cinnamon and clove.

Apple Pie Spice uses the same blend but typically no or very little ginger and heavier on the allspice, and no cloves. It's a little more subtle with the intent of bringing out the flavor of the apples.

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Chai also uses cinnamon, ginger, and clove. But the kick and brightness comes with added black pepper and cardamom. Some recipes will add a tick of freshness with fennel and anise pods. Chai is much more intricate but holds much the same warmth and spirit lifting.

If you're using the spice blend in a recipe, you can substitute another blend. Just know that the flavors will be slightly different. You can boost and change accordingly.

What does this all mean? Well, it means that EVERY season holds it's delight of spice, but Autumn and Winter bring out the greatest desire to savor the flavor.

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