7 Unique Alternatives to Cinnamon for Your Recipes

1. Nutmeg

Nutmeg comes from the seed of a tropical evergreen. With its pleasantly nutty and warming taste, nutmeg is often combined with cinnamon in treats like pumpkin pie. Besides its delicious flavor, nutmeg has long been appreciated for potential health benefits, thanks to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds. Just remember, start with half or even a quarter of the amount that cinnamon calls for!

2. Allspice

Allspice is not a mix of spices but dried unripe berries that taste like a mix of cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and black pepper. It’s packed with beneficial compounds like eugenol that may support anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial processes. Because its flavor is more intense than cinnamon, use only about a quarter to a third of the amount the recipe calls for.

3. Ginger

Ginger is a versatile spice commonly used in both sweet and savory dishes across Thai, Indian, and Chinese cuisines. It harbors powerful compounds like gingerols and shogaols, which have been linked to reducing inflammation and soothing nausea. If you’re in a pinch, powdered ginger can replace cinnamon on a 1:1 basis, adding a similar warmth to your dishes.

4. Pumpkin Pie Seasoning

Although designed for pumpkin pies, this spice mix is made mostly from cinnamon and paired with nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. It’s an excellent one-to-one substitute in baked goods and desserts. Just keep in mind that its blend introduces a slightly different flavor than pure cinnamon.

5. Cardamom

Cardamom is known as the “queen of spices” in many parts of the world, especially in India and the Middle East. Its sweet yet spicy flavor shines in both savory dishes and desserts. Rich in antioxidants, cardamom can serve as a 1:1 substitute for cinnamon. Plus, its unique aroma might just spark a delightful twist in your favorite recipe!

6. Cloves

Cloves are the buds of an evergreen native to Indonesia, known for their potent antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. Their strong yet slightly sweet and bitter flavor means they’re best paired with other spices like ginger and nutmeg when replacing cinnamon. Experiment with mixing half cloves and half ginger to create a balanced taste.

7. Mace

Mace is the outer covering of the nutmeg seed and offers a milder, sweeter flavor with a peppery kick compared to nutmeg. Some recipes successfully use either mace on its own or in tandem with nutmeg as a substitute for cinnamon. Just use a smaller amount—typically a quarter or half of the cinnamon measurement—to avoid overpowering your dish.

Switching Between Cinnamon Sticks and Ground Cinnamon

What if you only have cinnamon sticks when your recipe calls for ground cinnamon, or vice versa? No worries! You can easily transform cinnamon sticks into powder. Simply break them up in a coffee grinder or high-speed blender—just be cautious not to over-blend and heat the spice, which might affect its flavor. Alternatively, you can grate small shavings with a zester or gently crush them inside a sturdy plastic bag using a meat tenderizer.

If you need to substitute ground cinnamon for a cinnamon stick, keep in mind that roughly 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon works for each stick. This method works well for recipes like spiced cider, mulled wine, or puddings, but remember that ground cinnamon has a more concentrated flavor!

The Bottom Line

While cinnamon is hard to beat for its warm, spicy notes, these substitutes are great alternatives when you’re out or looking to mix up your spice rack. Nutmeg, allspice, ginger, pumpkin pie seasoning, cardamom, cloves, and mace each offer their own charming twist that can elevate your recipes. Have you ever tried one of these in your cooking?

Just One Thing: Sprinkle a dash of cinnamon on your morning oatmeal, yogurt, or even in your coffee for an extra boost of flavor. Or experiment with cinnamon tea by letting a stick simmer slowly in water for a comforting drink. Which way will you try this time?