Pumpkin spice flavor is undergoing a transformation with new taste suggestions

In the cool autumn air, a familiar aroma wafts through kitchens and grocery aisles alike - the warm, comforting scent of pumpkin spice. This beloved seasonal flavour is no longer limited to lattes and baked goods; it's now making its mark on savoury dishes, snack aisles, and even pet treats, signalling a shift in seasonal cooking habits and consumer preferences.

Jennifer Allen, a retired professional chef and long-time writer, is at the forefront of this pumpkin spice revolution. She's been developing recipes, travelling the world, and sharing her best creations at Cook What You Love. From roasted meats and hearty soups to stews, chefs and home cooks alike are embracing the versatility of pumpkin spice in their savoury dishes.

The flavourful spice blend is finding its way into an array of snack foods. Pumpkin spice popcorn, chips, and turkey jerky are just a few examples of the innovative snackable treats that are now available. For those seeking a more refined option, a tahini dip enhanced with pumpkin spice adds depth to snack boards when paired with crisp vegetables or soft pita.

Ice cream makers are also getting in on the action, pairing pumpkin spice with unexpected ingredients like miso and black sesame. For those with a sweet tooth, pumpkin spice is being used in desserts like cheesecake, mousse, and French pastries.

But it's not just about sweets. Bartenders are mixing pumpkin spice into drinks to balance bitter and oaky flavours, and it's being added to cocktails like Negronis, and to non-alcoholic drinks like cider spritzes and house-made syrups for cold brews.

The idea to expand pumpkin spice use into savoury dishes, snacks, and drinks has been embraced broadly by food editors and brands. Figures like Ree Drummond (The Pioneer Woman) and popular spice companies like McCormick are encouraging the use of pumpkin and pumpkin spice in a variety of savoury recipes, including soups, pastas, and even meatloaf.

Even the pet food industry is jumping on the pumpkin spice bandwagon, with pet treats now featuring the flavour, reinforcing its market presence and versatility across categories. Retail brands are also expanding their offerings, featuring pumpkin spice in granola bars, cereals, yogurts, snack mixes, and protein bars, extending its reach beyond coffee and baked goods.

Hummus blends now incorporate pumpkin spice to create a bold dip, and the flavour is even being used to flavour snack foods like vegan pasta sauces and glazes for carrots and Brussels sprouts.

Pumpkin spice offers a familiar comfort while inviting fresh ideas to the table with each new twist in its use. Whether it's a sweet treat or a savoury dish, pumpkin spice continues to capture the hearts and taste buds of consumers, making its presence known in kitchens and store shelves alike.