Whether you're ready or not, the beginning of September undoubtedly means pumpkin spice fever: lattes, muffins, pastas, cookies, breads, pies, smoothies — the list is neverending! Get a head start on the spicing with your own homemade  Pumpkin Spice Syrup. Fall's classic spices —  cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and nutmeg — star in a blend of sugar, water, vanilla extract and pumpkin puree to create the perfect — and natural — pumpkin flavoring, but the best part is what you decide to do with it. From pancakes and ice cream, to coffee and oatmeal, the options are harvest-ready.

Start to transition into autumn with more seasonal recipes from Cooking Channel:

• Pumpkin Gelato
• Pumpkin Cheesecake
• Cinnamon Knots
• Honey Roasted Peaches with Cinnamon Mascarpone