Best Nutmeg Substitutes
Out of nutmeg? These are the best nutmeg substitutes you can use in cooking and baking — ranked by how well they work in most recipes. Whether you need a dairy-free swap, a pantry staple alternative, or just ran out mid-recipe, one of these 4 options will have you covered.
Nutmeg Substitution Options
½ tsp Mace
Use instead of ½ tsp Ground Nutmeg
Mace is the outer covering of the nutmeg seed — it's essentially nutmeg-adjacent with a slightly more delicate, floral flavor. The most accurate substitute, used 1:1, and equally good in béchamel, eggnog, and baked goods.
½ tsp Ground Cinnamon
Use instead of ½ tsp Ground Nutmeg
Cinnamon provides similar warmth and sweetness but is less pungent than nutmeg. Use 1:1 in baked goods and desserts. It's sweeter and less bitter — a safe swap when nutmeg is a minor ingredient.
¼ tsp Allspice
Use instead of ½ tsp Ground Nutmeg
Allspice contains natural nutmeg notes. Use half the amount as it's more assertive. Works well in pies, cakes, mulled wine, and spice blends where nutmeg provides warmth.
½ tsp Garam Masala (in savory recipes)
Use instead of ½ tsp Ground Nutmeg
In savory applications like béchamel, spinach, or cream sauces, garam masala adds nutmeg's warmth plus additional complexity. Use sparingly — it's bolder and will shift the dish toward Indian-inspired flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best substitute for nutmeg?
The best substitutes for nutmeg are ½ tsp Mace, ½ tsp Ground Cinnamon, ¼ tsp Allspice. Mace is the outer covering of the nutmeg seed — it's essentially nutmeg-adjacent with a slightly more delicate, floral flavor. The most accurate substitute, used 1:1, and equally good in béchamel, eggnog, and baked goods.
Can I use ½ tsp Ground Cinnamon instead of nutmeg?
Cinnamon provides similar warmth and sweetness but is less pungent than nutmeg. Use 1:1 in baked goods and desserts. It's sweeter and less bitter — a safe swap when nutmeg is a minor ingredient.
How do I substitute nutmeg in baking?
When substituting nutmeg in baking, it's important to match the ratio carefully. Check the individual substitution notes above for exact measurements and tips for each swap.