7 Benefits of Homemade Spice Blends (+PDF)

Homemade spice mixes form the backbone of a well-stocked pantry. They offer numerous benefits including saving time and money, and are one of the easiest ways to start making your food from scratch. In this guide, I share 7 benefits of making your own spice blends at home, including my favorite recipes, sourcing tips, storage advice, and a free label template for your creations.

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7 benefits of homemade spice mixes

Freshness and quality: You are in control of the freshness and quality of the ingredients.
Blend to taste: Adjust the ingredients based on your taste preference or dietary requirements, especially when it comes to the heat of the mix or the amount of salt used.
No additives: Avoid artificial additives and preservatives including fillers and artificial flavorings.
Save time: Homemade spice mixes allow you to season your dishes in seconds eliminating the time of opening and closing numerous spice mix containers and tasting your food throughout the seasoning process.
Cost-effective: Save money by buying bulk spices over small store-bought blends.
Sustainability: Reduce packaging waste by using bulk ingredients and reusable containers.
Gifts: Homemade spice mixes make thoughtful and personal food gifts – especially if you adjust the blend to suit the recipient’s taste preferences.

Where to source bulk spices

I suggest buying spices in bulk – organic if possible – to be able to create high-quality spice blends at home. You can find them at ethnic grocers, health food stores, and online retailers such as Amazon, Azure Standard, or Thrive Market.

Ground and whole spices laid out on a wooden surface.

How to store homemade spice blends

To keep your homemade spice blends fragrant and fresh, proper storage is key. Use airtight containers, like mason jars with tight-fitting lids, to prevent moisture and air from sneaking in. I use these 4oz Bell Verones mason jars for my spice blends which fit about 8 tablespoons of spice mix.

Find a cool, dark place in your pantry away from direct sunlight and heat sources. This way your blends stay fresh for 3-6 months.

How to label your homemade spices

Here are some tips for creating clear and informative labels for your homemade spice blends. Include the following essential information:

Name: Choose a creative or descriptive name that reflects the blend’s flavor profile. (e.g. “Fiona’s Fiesta Taco Mix” vs. “Taco Mix”)
Date: Include the date you made the blend for freshness reference.

You can add additional information such as the heat intensity to help navigate your spice selection, especially if other people in your household are using your blends:

Heat level: Indicate the spice level (mild, medium, hot) using a pepper symbol (️) or a simple description.
Dietary notes: If the blend is gluten-free, vegan, or salt-free, mention it for clarity – especially if you’re creating spice mixes as a gift.

Spice label materials

Sticker labels: Pre-printed or printable sticker labels are a convenient option.
Tags: Hang tags with twine or ribbon to add a rustic touch.
Masking tape: For a budget-friendly option, write directly on masking tape and stick it to the jar.
Label maker: Use a label maker to create professional-looking labels for your blends.
Marker pen: Use a permanent marker to ensure clear and long-lasting labeling.