Need Substitutes For Allspice? Here Are The 7 Best Options

In need of quick substitutes for allspice in your Caribbean recipe? Whether your pantry is all out or you’re in a rush, we’ve got you covered with alternative options.

We go into details about how to use each allspice substitute below and when you should use each one, but here’s a quick snapshot of our best substitutes for allspice.

Substitutes For Allspice	Ratio
Cinnamon + Cloves	1/2 t each cinnamon, ground cloves for 1 t
Cinnamon + Ground Black Pepper	1/2 each cinnamon, ground black pepper for 1 t
Cinnamon + Nutmeg	1/2 t each cinnamon, nutmeg for 1 t
Clove + Cardamom	1/2 t each ground cloves, ground cardamom for 1 t
Ground Ginger	1/2-3/4 t ground ginger for 1 t
Nutmeg + Cloves + Cinnamon	1/3 t each nutmeg, cloves, cinnamon for 1 t
Pumpkin Pie Spice	1:1

How much ground allspice is equivalent to 1 whole allspice berry?

You can use  1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of ground allspice for every whole allspice berry.

How can I convert whole allspice berries to ground allspice?

If a recipe calls for whole allspice berries, but you have ground allspice, use the same amount. For instance, if the recipe requires 1 teaspoon of whole allspice berries, use 1 teaspoon of ground allspice instead.

How can I accurately measure ground allspice?

Accurately measure ground allspice by using a measuring spoon, leveling it off for the desired amount, or using a kitchen scale for precise measurement.

Substitutes For Allspice

1. Cinnamon + Cloves

Cinnamon and cloves blend is a common substitute for allspice. The cinnamon offers warmth and sweet flavor, while the cloves bring depth and a slightly pungent note. This blend is versatile, working well in baked goods like spice cakes and cookies, savory dishes such as stews and marinades, beverages like mulled wine, and even preserves. However, due to their potency, it’s best to start with a smaller quantity and adjust to taste.

Combine 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon and 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves for every teaspoon of allspice.

2. Cinnamon + Ground Black Pepper

This mix captures the warm, sweet notes of cinnamon alongside the slightly pungent kick of black pepper, mimicking the complex flavor of allspice. The blend of cinnamon and ground black pepper can replace allspice in dishes such as pumpkin pies, spice cakes, savory stews, and specific marinades that call for a warm, slightly spicy note.

Replace a teaspoon of allspice with 1/2 teaspoon each of cinnamon and ground black pepper.

3. Cinnamon + Nutmeg

The mixture of cinnamon and nutmeg offers a warm and slightly sweet note, making it a suitable substitute for allspice. It’s particularly fitting for sweet dishes like puddings, pies, and baked goods but can also be added to savory dishes, especially creamy sauces or those that would benefit from a lighter, sweeter spice note. 

Replace a teaspoon of allspice for 1/2 teaspoon each of cinnamon and nutmeg. 

4. Clove + Cardamom

Using a combination of clove and cardamom as a substitute for allspice can be effective, especially in recipes like pumpkin pies, gingerbread cookies, spiced bread, jerk seasoning, and stews. Cloves have a sweet, strong scent, while cardamom is citrusy and fragrant. Together, they resemble the warmth of allspice but with distinct flavors. Given their distinctive character, ensure you taste and adjust your recipe, particularly in desserts and marinades where the precise balance of spices is crucial.

Use 1/2 teaspoon each of ground cloves and ground cardamom for every teaspoon of allspice. 

5. Ground Ginger

You can substitute ground ginger for allspice, although the spice will impart a distinct ginger taste rather than the nuanced blend of cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon that allspice offers. When substituting, you might consider recipes like pumpkin pies, spice cakes, or certain marinades for meats where the exact spice blend can be tweaked to your preference. Always remember to adjust based on taste to achieve the desired flavor profile.

Replace a teaspoon of allspice for 1/2 to 3/4 teaspoon of ground ginger.

6. Nutmeg + Cloves + Cinnamon

The trio of nutmeg, cloves, and cinnamon offers a comprehensive flavor that can approximate the warmth and depth of allspice. The combination is ideal for both sweet recipes, such as pies and fruitcakes, and savory dishes like Caribbean entrees. For optimal flavor, store in an airtight container and adjust the blend to personal preference. 

Blend 1/3 teaspoon each of nutmeg, cloves, and cinnamon for every teaspoon of allspice.

7. Pumpkin Pie Spice

Pumpkin pie spice is a good substitute for allspice, particularly in recipes where a mix of warm spices is welcomed. Featuring warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and sometimes allspice itself, the blend offers a complex, fall-centric flavor compared to the singular, distinctive taste of allspice. You can use it in recipes like pies, cookies, cakes, muffins, and even some savory dishes like stews or roasts.

Substitute pumpkin pie spice in a 1:1 ratio.

The bottom line

Finding substitutes for allspice is crucial for those moments when you’re in the middle of a recipe and realize you’ve run out of this unique spice. While no single ingredient can perfectly mimic the complex flavor profile of allspice, a blend of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg comes close. And if you don’t have these spices, simply use your pumpkin pie spice in a 1:1 ratio.

More About Allspice

• Allspice Recipes
• What Is Allspice?