If you're in need of a nutmeg substitute, you'll be happy to learn about the wide range of options available. Whether you're out of nutmeg or simply looking for a slightly different flavor, there are plenty of alternatives that can be used. In this ultimate guide, we'll explore the best nutmeg substitute options to help you achieve that warm, spicy, and nutty flavor profile in all your favorite recipes.
Jump to:
- What is Nutmeg?
- Is nutmeg a nut?
- What does nutmeg taste like?
- What spice is closest to nutmeg?
- Fresh nutmeg vs Ground nutmeg
- What is the best Nutmeg Substitute?
- 1. Cinnamon
- 2. Allspice
- 3. Ground Mace
- 4. Ground Ginger
- 5. Cardamom
- 6. Ground Cloves
- 7. Garam Masala
- 8. Pumpkin pie spice
- 9. Apple pie spice
- 10. Nutmeg extract
- 11. Vanilla extract
- 12. Star anise
- 13. Fennel seed
- Best Nutmeg Substitute for baking
- How to grate fresh nutmeg
- Best nutmeg substitute in Eggnogg
- Nutmeg substitute for Pumpkin pie
- What can I use instead of nutmeg in Custard?
- Nutmeg Substitute FAQs
- What can I use nutmeg in baking?
- More Substitute Guides
- The BEST Nutmeg Substitute
What is Nutmeg?
Nutmeg is a spice that is commonly used in both sweet and savory dishes. It has a warm, sweet, and slightly nutty flavor, and it is often used in holiday recipes like pumpkin pie and eggnog. Nutmeg is also used in savory dishes like stews, soups, and pasta dishes.
Is nutmeg a nut?
No, even though nutmeg has "nut" in its name, nutmeg is not a nut; it is a seed. Nutmeg seeds come from the evergreen Myristica Fragrans tree. The tree produces a fruit, and inside the fruit is the nutmeg seed, which is surrounded by a bright red membrane called mace. Both nutmeg and mace are ground into powders to use as spices, but nutmeg is the more commonly used of the two.
What does nutmeg taste like?
Nutmeg is a warm and earthy spice with subtle sweetness, a slightly woody taste, and notes of clove, cinnamon, and pepper. Nutmeg gives off a potent flavor and aroma that can easily overpower other ingredients if used in excess. Typically, a recipe calls for a small amount of nutmeg, and that's enough to add depth and complexity to a wide range of dishes.
What spice is closest to nutmeg?
Mace is considered the closest spice to nutmeg as it comes from the same plant. It is made from the outer coating of the nutmeg seed, while nutmeg itself comes from the inner seed. Mace is a great alternative for nutmeg, with a similar flavor profile, but it has a bolder taste and aroma. Nutmeg is also an excellent substitute for mace.
Fresh nutmeg vs Ground nutmeg
The main difference between fresh nutmeg and ground nutmeg is the intensity of their flavors. Fresh nutmeg (or whole nutmeg) has a stronger, more complex flavor than ground nutmeg, and when grated, its oils are released, adding to its depth of flavor in a dish. Ground nutmeg, on the other hand, has a more subtle flavor since the oils in the nutmeg were already released during the grinding process.
Another difference between the two is their shelf lives. Fresh nutmeg can be stored longer, but once it's grated, it loses its flavor quickly. Ground nutmeg, on the other hand, has a shorter shelf life and should be used within six months for the best freshness.
Ground nutmeg can stand in as a fresh nutmeg substitute, but the flavor will be less potent.
What is the best Nutmeg Substitute?
When considering the best nutmeg substitute, it's important to think about the tastes, textures, and aromas of the possible alternatives. It can be difficult to match the complex flavors of nutmeg, but creativity is welcome in this endeavor. For example, you can blend nutmeg substitutes, such as ground cinnamon and ginger, in order to achieve a warm and sweet flavor that comes with a little bit of spice.
There are several nutmeg substitutes, and the following are the most common.
- Cinnamon
- Allspice
- Ground Mace
- Ground Ginger
- Cardamom
- Ground cloves
- Garam masala
- Pumpkin pie spice
- Apple pie spice
- Nutmeg extract
- Vanilla extract
- Star anise
- Fennel seeds
1. Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a common substitute for nutmeg in baking recipes. It has a similarly warm and sweet flavor and is often used in apple pie, banana bread, and other baked goods. While cinnamon does not have the same complexity as nutmeg, it can still add a warm and comforting flavor to your dishes as a substitute for nutmeg. Given cinnamon's bold flavor, you usually don't need to use very much of it.
How to use it
Start by adding about half as much cinnamon as you would use nutmeg. That is, if your recipe calls for ½ teaspoon of nutmeg, add ¼ teaspoon of cinnamon. Give your recipe a quick taste test, and increase the measurements to suit your taste preferences.
2. Allspice
Contrary to what the name suggests, allspice is not a blend but rather a spice that is made from dried allspice berries. It has a warm and sweet flavor that is similar to a combination of nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves. You may be wondering, can I use allspice instead of nutmeg? Allspice is versatile. It can be a nutmeg substitute in bechamel and other savory recipes, or it can deliver a major flavor boost in sweet recipes like mini pumpkin bundt cakes.
The good news is you can substitute allspice in both sweet and savory dishes. Allspice also makes a great ground mace substitute.
How to use it
When substituting allspice for nutmeg, it is recommended to maintain a 1:1 ratio. This means that for every teaspoon of nutmeg called for in a recipe, you should use an equal amount of allspice.
3. Ground Mace
Mace is the sister of nutmeg. It is a nutmeg like spice that is made from the outer covering of the nutmeg seed. It has a similar flavor to nutmeg but slightly more potency. You can substitute nutmeg for mace and vice versa in both sweet and savory dishes.
How to use it
You can add mace at a direct 1:1 ratio when substituting it for nutmeg.
4. Ground Ginger
Ground ginger has a warm and spicy flavor. Because it packs a powerful punch, even in small amounts, ginger works best as a nutmeg replacement in savory recipes, e.g., meat-centered entrees or vegetable-based side dishes.
How to use it
Ginger has a much stronger and spicier flavor than nutmeg, so you should use it sparingly. Start by using half the amount of ginger as you would nutmeg and adjust according to taste.
5. Cardamom
Cardamom is a spice that is commonly used in Indian and Middle Eastern cooking, but it also adds a delicious level of flavor to baked goods like cardamom cake and pumpkin spice donuts. It has a warm and slightly sweet flavor with a hint of citrus that you may recognize if you enjoy chai tea. Cardamom has a unique taste, but you can use it as a substitution for nutmeg in small amounts.
How to use it
Start by using about ¼ as much cardamom as you would nutmeg, and adjust according to taste preferences.
6. Ground Cloves
Ground cloves are a versatile and potent spice. They impart a warm flavor into a variety of recipes. Although they deliver a subtly sweet taste, cloves also have a peppery overall flavor profile. They provide balance to the sweetness in dishes, making them a great complement to both sweet and savory recipes. Cloves make a nutmeg substitute mac and cheese recipes can benefit from, and at the same time, they are a nutmeg substitute baking enthusiasts can get behind.
How to use it
Start by using half the amount of cloves as you would nutmeg and adjust according to taste. Ground cloves work well in both sweet and savory dishes as an alternative to nutmeg.
7. Garam Masala
Garam Masala is a spice blend that often includes cumin, cinnamon, cloves, and other warm aromatics. It has layers of flavor with just a hint of sweetness and a touch of heat that instantly brings life to any dish. Though the exact spices in the blend can vary by brand, it often includes nutmeg. Its overall warmth makes Garam Masala a nutmeg substitute savory dishes can benefit from.
How to use it
Garam masala is one of the substitutes that can replace nutmeg at a 1:1 ratio. It's best to use in savory recipes such as soups, steak rubs, and in vegetable-based dishes.
8. Pumpkin pie spice
Pumpkin pie spice is a blend of spices commonly used to season pumpkin pie. It typically includes cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and allspice. It's good to know that whenever a blend includes nutmeg, it's often a good signal that the blend will work as a ground nutmeg substitute.
How to use it
Use a 1:1 ratio when substituting pumpkin pie spice for nutmeg. Pumpkin pie spice works best as a nutmeg alternative in desserts, especially in quick bread, custards, cakes, and cookies.
9. Apple pie spice
Apple pie spice is a blend of spices commonly used in apple pie recipes. It normally includes cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. Apple pie spice is similar to pumpkin pie spice, except it doesn't usually have cloves, making it less intense tasting. It can also sometimes have cardamom, another warming spice.
How to use it
Use a 1:1 ratio when substituting apple pie spice for nutmeg. This substitution works best in sweet dishes that will benefit from the subtle warming spice.
10. Nutmeg extract
Nutmeg extract is made from the essential oils of nutmeg and has a concentrated flavor. It's a less common extract, though, so you might have the best luck finding it online.
How to use it
Use just a few drops of nutmeg extract as a substitute for ¼ teaspoon of ground nutmeg. This works well in both sweet and savory baked goods.
11. Vanilla extract
Vanilla extract is a common ingredient in baking that can add a sweet and warm flavor to desserts. While it doesn't taste like nutmeg, it can play a supportive role in recipes where its use helps liven up the other flavors.
How to use it
Start by using a small amount of vanilla extract, such as ¼ teaspoon, and adjust according to taste. This works best in drinks and desserts that use nutmeg in addition to other spices.
12. Star anise
Star anise has a licorice-like flavor with a hint of sweetness and is often found in Chinese five-spice powder. It can be used as a replacement for nutmeg in some savory recipes as well as baked goods that won't be easily overpowered by its strong flavor, e.g., Chocolate Orange Bundt Cake.
How to use it
Start by adding ½- ¾ of the amount of star anise for a nutmeg replacement since it has a more robust flavor. When using star anise as a sub for nutmeg, it works well in holiday baked goods or strongly flavored spice blends for meat marinades and stews.
13. Fennel seed
Fennel seed has a slightly sweet, anise-like flavor. You may be familiar with the taste from sausage, as it's a popular spice to use with pork. While fennel doesn't have the same warming qualities as nutmeg, ground fennel seed may be how to make nutmeg substitute elevate the flavor of your savory dishes.
How to use it
Use a 1:1 ratio when substituting fennel seed for nutmeg. It is best used in savory dishes such as marinara sauce, for a nutmeg substitute bolognese lovers would appreciate, or in cabbage and lentil soup as a warm, slightly sweet spice.
Best Nutmeg Substitute for baking
For baking, the best nutmeg substitute is ground cinnamon, which is readily available in most kitchens. Cinnamon has a slightly sweeter taste than nutmeg, but it pairs well with baked goods, delivering warmth to every bite e.g., banana mini muffins.
Another one of the best nutmeg substitutes is allspice, which has a similar flavor to nutmeg but is a bit sharper in taste. One advantage that allspice has over cinnamon is that it includes the slightly peppery element that nutmeg adds to recipes.
Lastly, mace is another great nutmeg alternative that is made from the outer covering of the nutmeg seed. Its flavor is very similar to nutmeg.
How to grate fresh nutmeg
Grating fresh nutmeg is a simple process that you can easily do at home. All you need is a whole nutmeg seed and a grater or Microplane. Hold the nutmeg seed firmly in one hand and the grater in the other. Then, using gentle pressure, rub the seed back and forth over the grater until you have your desired amount of ground nutmeg.
Keep in mind that freshly grated nutmeg has a stronger flavor than pre-ground nutmeg, so you may not need to use as much of it.
Best nutmeg substitute in Eggnogg
Eggnog is a classic holiday drink that relies on nutmeg for its warm, distinctive flavor. If you don't have any nutmeg on hand, you can use cinnamon or allspice for a nutmeg substitute eggnog fans can enjoy. These spices can match the warmth and sweetness that nutmeg provides.
Nutmeg substitute for Pumpkin pie
Pumpkin pie is another classic dessert that often calls for nutmeg. Pumpkin pie spice is the best substitute for nutmeg in pumpkin pie. This blend is commercially available, but it's also very easy to make your own pumpkin pie spice for home storage.
What can I use instead of nutmeg in Custard?
Custard is a rich and creamy dessert that is perfectly seasoned with nutmeg. However, there are several substitutes you can use to achieve a similar flavor. Mace will give you the closest flavor, but it's more likely that you already have cinnamon in your pantry.
With its similarly warm and sweet taste, cinnamon is the most easily accessible substitute for nutmeg in custard. Pumpkin pie spice and allspice are other options for substituting nutmeg in custard recipes.
Nutmeg Substitute FAQs
Typically nutmeg is used in small amounts and probably wouldn’t greatly affect the final outcome of the recipe. It's likely, however, that without nutmeg, your recipe will be missing the depth of flavor that takes it to the next level. It’s best to use a nutmeg substitution if possible.
Dried spices lose potency and flavor over time. While they won’t go bad in a traditional sense or make you sick to consume, spices won’t add much flavor if they’ve been open for an extended period of time. Try to use your ground nutmeg within 6 months of opening.
Both paprika and nutmeg are used in a variety of recipes, but their taste and uses are quite distinct. Paprika has a smoky, deep flavor, whereas nutmeg has a lightly sweet and nutty taste.
Cinnamon is an excellent substitute for nutmeg, and nutmeg can also serve in the place of cinnamon, depending on the recipe. Just be sure to start with a small amount and increase it as needed. If the recipe relies heavily on cinnamon, you may be better off using a blend of spices instead. Check my cinnamon substitute guide for more details.
The type of recipe depends on which replacement will be best. Mace is considered a very close substitute for almost all recipes. In dessert recipes, allspice and cinnamon are good alternatives for nutmeg. In savory dishes, garam masala or fennel seed may be more appropriate.
What can I use nutmeg in baking?
More Substitute Guides
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The BEST Nutmeg Substitute
Best nutmeg substitute
- ½ teaspoon Cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon Allspice
- 1 teaspoon Mace
Instructions
- To replace 1 teaspoon of ground nutmeg use one of the above options
Note
- Ground Ginger
- Cardamom
- Ground cloves
- Garam masala
- Pumpkin pie spice
- Apple pie spice
- Nutmeg extract
- Vanilla extract
- Star anise
- Fennel seeds
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