Substitutes for Nutmeg

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Warm, slightly sweet spice used in baking, cream sauces, eggnog, and savory dishes like béchamel.

Can't find Nutmeg in your kitchen? No problem! Below are 4 tested substitutes with exact ratios, perfect for baking, cooking, and everything in between.

Substitute Ratio Best For Dietary
Mace 1:1 replacement baking, cream sauces, eggnog
Vegan Gluten-Free
Allspice 1:1 replacement baking, spice rubs, mulled drinks
Vegan Gluten-Free
Cinnamon 1:1 replacement baking, custards, desserts
Vegan Gluten-Free
Pumpkin Pie Spice 1:1 replacement baking, lattes, desserts
Vegan Gluten-Free

How to Use

Same plant as nutmeg (the outer covering). Almost identical flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best substitute for Nutmeg?
The best substitute depends on your recipe, but Mace is a reliable choice for most applications. Use 1:1 replacement.
What's a vegan substitute for Nutmeg?
Mace 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.

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