Nutmeg Substitutes: What to Use When You're Out of This Spice

Nutmeg adds a warm, slightly sweet, and spicy note to many dishes, from baked goods to savory sauces. But what if you’re in the middle of baking your favorite cake or whipping up a comforting béchamel sauce and realize you're out of nutmeg? Don’t worry—you’ve got options! Here are some of the best nutmeg substitutes that can still give your recipes that signature touch of spice.

1. Mace

Mace is the closest substitute for nutmeg because they come from the same source—the nutmeg seed. Mace is the outer covering of the nutmeg seed, and it has a flavor that’s almost identical to nutmeg, though slightly more delicate. It works great in both sweet and savory dishes where nutmeg is called for.

Ratio: 1:1 substitution for nutmeg

2. Cinnamon

Cinnamon is probably the most common spice in the pantry that can be used in place of nutmeg. Though it’s less complex than nutmeg, cinnamon adds that warm, aromatic spice that’s great for desserts, sauces, and stews. Just be mindful that cinnamon is slightly sweeter, so you may need to adjust any sugar in the recipe.

Ratio: Use ½ teaspoon of cinnamon for every 1 teaspoon of nutmeg

3. Allspice

Allspice, despite its name, isn’t a blend of spices—it’s a single spice with a flavor that resembles a mix of nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves. Its earthy warmth makes it a solid replacement for nutmeg, especially in sweet dishes and baking. However, since allspice has a more pronounced kick, use it sparingly.

Ratio: Use ½ teaspoon of allspice for every 1 teaspoon of nutmeg

4. Ginger

Ginger has a slightly sharp, peppery flavor with a hint of sweetness, making it a good substitute for nutmeg in both savory and sweet dishes. Ginger works particularly well in baked goods and can even bring a unique twist to savory recipes. If you want to add some warmth without the same earthy taste, ginger can be a fun alternative.

Ratio: Use ½ teaspoon of ginger for every 1 teaspoon of nutmeg

5. Cloves

Cloves have a powerful, sweet, and spicy flavor that can replace nutmeg in small amounts. Cloves are quite strong, so you don’t need much to get the desired effect. This substitute works best in sweet dishes or those with a lot of other warm spices, as it might overwhelm delicate recipes.

Ratio: Use ¼ teaspoon of ground cloves for every 1 teaspoon of nutmeg

6. Pumpkin Pie Spice

If you have a jar of pumpkin pie spice sitting around, it can easily take the place of nutmeg. Since this blend usually includes nutmeg, cinnamon, ginger, and allspice, it will provide the warmth and complexity that nutmeg brings to dishes. Pumpkin pie spice works particularly well in sweet or seasonal recipes like pies and cakes.

Ratio: Use 1:1 substitution for nutmeg

7. Cardamom

Cardamom has a citrusy, floral taste with notes of warmth, making it an interesting substitute for nutmeg. It’s a bit more aromatic and sweeter, so it works best in recipes like cakes, cookies, and even curry dishes. It won’t give you the exact same flavor profile as nutmeg, but it will add a pleasant twist to your recipe.

Ratio: Use ½ teaspoon of cardamom for every 1 teaspoon of nutmeg

Nutmeg is a unique spice, but you don’t need to worry if you’re out of it. With options like mace, cinnamon, allspice, and even ginger, you can find the right substitute to keep your dish tasting delicious. The key is to understand the flavor each alternative brings and use it in the right proportion to match your recipe’s needs. Whether you're baking something sweet or cooking up a comforting savory dish, there’s always a way to spice things up without nutmeg.