Most of us have a cabinet full of dusty, old spice jars that we rarely touch.
We buy them for one specific recipe, use a tiny pinch, and then completely FORGET they are even there.
But making your own spice blends at home is an easy way to bring your everyday cooking to life.
Not only do homemade mixes taste way fresher, but they also cost a lot less than the store-bought versions.
Plus, you get to control EXACTLY what goes into them—meaning no weird ingredients or tons of extra salt.
I put together a list of nine helpful homemade spice blends that every home cook should have in their pantry.
These recipes include everything from smoky and sweet rubs to savory, herb-filled mixes that go well on almost anything.
They work perfectly for roasted veggies, grilled meats, cozy soups, or even just sprinkling over some warm popcorn.
You do not need any fancy kitchen tools to make these, and they only take a few minutes to whip up.
Here are nine simple and delicious DIY spice blends to help make your next meal taste AMAZING.
1. Homemade Mixed Spice
Create your own Homemade Mixed Spice for a cozy touch in your kitchen.
This blend is perfect for adding warm flavor to your favorite baked goods and desserts.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
2. Jamaican Jerk Spice I
This Jamaican Jerk Spice I brings a bold and spicy kick to your meals.
It is a great way to flavor meats before you grill or roast them.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
3. Jamaican Jerk Spice II
Enjoy a different take on heat with this Jamaican Jerk Spice II.
Use this pungent mix to give your roasted meats an authentic and fiery taste.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
4. Basic Mulling Spice
This Basic Mulling Spice is a simple way to warm up your drinks.
It adds a classic, cozy aroma to your favorite beverages.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
5. Brown Sugar Mulling Spice Mix
Our Brown Sugar Mulling Spice Mix adds a touch of sweetness to your glass.
It is a delicious blend that makes any warm drink feel like a treat.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
6. Homemade Five-Spice Powder
Homemade Five-Spice Powder is a versatile seasoning that balances five different flavors.
It works wonderfully in beef stew or as a rub for roasted duck.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
7. Mulling Spice with Anise
Mulling Spice with Anise gives your drinks a distinct and aromatic flavor.
It is a lovely choice for adding a unique twist to your winter beverages.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
8. Sweetened Mulling Spice Mix
This Sweetened Mulling Spice Mix combines warm spices with a sugary finish.
It is the perfect addition to make your warm drinks taste like a dessert.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
9. Tamil Spice Mix (Milagai Podi)
Tamil Spice Mix (Milagai Podi) is a flavorful condiment perfect for adding a punch to your meals.
You can use this mix dry or blend it with ghee or oil.
It tastes best when served with hot idlis or dosais.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.