Substitutes for Cloves

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Intensely aromatic spice used in baking, mulled drinks, spice blends, and savory dishes.

Can't find Cloves in your kitchen? No problem! Below are 3 tested substitutes with exact ratios, perfect for baking, cooking, and everything in between.

Substitute Ratio Best For Dietary
Allspice 1:1 replacement baking, spice rubs, mulled drinks
Vegan Gluten-Free
Nutmeg 1:1 replacement baking, custards, desserts
Vegan Gluten-Free
Cinnamon 1:1 replacement baking, desserts
Vegan Gluten-Free

How to Use

Contains clove notes plus cinnamon and nutmeg. Best substitute.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best substitute for Cloves?
The best substitute depends on your recipe, but Allspice is a reliable choice for most applications. Use 1:1 replacement.
What's a vegan substitute for Cloves?
Allspice is an excellent vegan option. Use 1:1 replacement.
Can I use any of these substitutes interchangeably?
Most substitutes work well in their recommended use cases, but they may produce slightly different results. The notes above explain the differences and best practices.
Will the taste be affected?
Some substitutes may subtly change the flavor profile of your dish, but they'll work great in the recommended use cases. Start with the suggested ratio and adjust to your taste.