5 pumpkin spiced recipes to celebrate Thanksgiving

It’s an American tradition to enjoy the warming notes of pumpkin spice on Thanksgiving, but while we don’t technically celebrate the holiday, it doesn’t mean we can’t still embrace the flavours of pumpkin spice in SA too. In fact, in the last few years Hug in a Mug and local Starbucks stores have launched pumpkin spice-flavoured coffee, proving just how much we South Africans love to embrace North American traditions.

But what is pumpkin spice?

Pumpkin spice is actually called pumpkin pie spice after the dish in which it’s used. It usually consists of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves and allspice. These spices are quite heady and strong in flavour and work perfectly in these recipes:

Pumpkin pie

Of course, this list would not be complete without an actual pumpkin pie recipe.

Pumpkin pie waffles with orange and brandy syrup 

For a breakfast version, make these delicious, syrupy waffles.

Hot cross buns and spiced pumpkin pudding 

The cinnamon notes found in pumpkin spice may remind you of a food that is traditional in South Africa: hot cross buns. This recipe perfectly combines the two in one delicious pudding.

Cinnamon-spiced pumpkin muffins with walnut crumble 

These muffins are easy to make, healthy and good to have on hand for a lunchbox treat or teatime break.

Pumpkin pecan pie cookies 

A play on two American favourites, pecan pie and pumpkin pie. These cookies are a flavour bomb that you don’t want to miss out on.