Allspice is a versatile and flavorful spice commonly used in both sweet and savory dishes. It adds a unique depth of flavor to various recipes, and is loved by many home cooks and professional chefs alike. Originating from the Caribbean and Central America, allspice is sometimes difficult to find in local supermarkets or grocery stores, leading many people to search for suitable substitutes.
A wide range of allspice alternatives exist to enhance your dishes, even when the original spice is unavailable. Understanding the key characteristics of allspice, its origin, and its role in cooking can help you select the perfect substitute for your recipe. It is also worth noting that you can create your own allspice blend using readily available spices, which can be customized according to your individual taste preferences.
Allspice is a delicious spice in its own right, deriving from the dried berries of the Pimenta dioica plant, which is a member of the myrtle family.
In Jamaica, allspice is known as myrtle pepper, Jamaica pepper, pimento, or pimenta. Allspice is native to Central America, southern Mexico, and the Greater Antilles, but now it’s cultivated all over warm areas of the world. In Caribbean cuisines, allspice is an important ingredient.
You’ll also find allspice listed as an ingredient in lots of Middle Eastern recipes. In the Levant, allspice is used to flavor several different meat dishes and stews, along with tomato sauces. In many Arab recipes, allspice may be the only spiced listed, and that tells you how important it is. Allspice is also popular in the famous Cincinnati chili.
So, now that we’ve established the difference between allspice and mixed spice (trust us, that is important for later on in the article), we want to explore what happens if you don’t have any allspice.
Allspice is used in many different recipes and is popular thanks to its sweet, warm, slightly earthy taste.
However, it might not be as common as some other spices out there, and so sometimes you might come across a recipe that needs it but you realize you don’t have any there.
What happens then? Is your recipe doomed forever? Do you need to run out to the store and hunt down some allspice? Or can you substitute it for something else? We vote for the latter!
In this article, we will be exploring some of the best substitutes for allspice and telling you what sort of recipes they would work in, and what amounts of each are needed.
What flavor profile does allspice have?
Before we go ahead and tell you about the different substitutes for allspice, we thought that it would be very helpful to let you know about the flavor profile of allspice.
As we made clear in the introduction, allspice is not a mix of spices like it is commonly assumed. The term ‘allspice’ is used interchangeably to mean ‘mixed spice’. However, as you now know, allspice is a spice in its own right.
However perhaps the confusion lies within its flavor profile, because, whilst it isn’t a mix of different spices, it certainly tastes and smells that way.
What we mean by this is that allspice tastes and smells a lot like some other common spices. These are cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove. It is for this reason that allspice is named allspice.
When English explorers first discovered it in Jamaica they remarked that it tasted like many different spices, and henceforth, called in allspice.
The flavor profile suggests that allspice is used entirely for sweet dishes. However, this is not the case.
Whilst it is used in many sweet recipes, it is a very versatile herb and is used in savory dishes from cuisines all around the globe. It is also used in sauce and drinks!
As you know from the introduction, allspice is the berry of the Pimenta dioica plant, and so it comes in the form of a berry. You can get these berries fresh or dried, both of which can be used for their flavor.
However, it is, perhaps, most common to find ground allspice. This is made from dried, ground berries. The leaves can also be used in recipes, and they resemble bay leaves when they are whole.
With this in mind, you can, in theory, substitute one type of allspice for another.
What we mean is, if your recipe calls for some whole allspice berries (they resemble peppercorns when they are dried) but you do not have any, you can actually use ground allspice in its place.
Pumpkin spice mix
The first substitute that we wanted to tell you about is one that you may have left in your store cupboard or pantry after fall!
A pumpkin spice mix is a fantastic substitute for allspice in so many recipes. If you are swapping it out in a sweet recipe, you can use your pumpkin spice mix as it is.
If the recipe is a savory one then you can also add in some ground black pepper to suit the recipe a little more.
Pumpkin spice mix, whatever the brand, or even if it is homemade, is highly likely to contain cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg, among other yummy herbs and spices.
Given the flavor profile of allspice, it is likely that there may even be some allspice in your pumpkin spice mix!
If your recipe calls for one teaspoon of ground allspice then you can use one teaspoon of pumpkin spice mix in its place.
As we said, for any savory recipes it may be a good idea to also add in some ground black pepper. When adding your black pepper you can use a quarter of a teaspoon of it for each teaspoon of the pumpkin spice mix.
One thing to keep in mind is that store-bought pumpkin spice mix may also have some other flavorings in there such as vanilla, and may also have added sugar or sweeteners.
Bear this in mind as this could alter the taste of your recipe. You can either adjust the amount accordingly or avoid using a mix that has these added extras, depending on what your recipe is.
Cloves
Using cloves in place of allspice works well in many different recipes, both sweet and savory. This is because of the clove flavor that allspice has.
You can use whole dried cloves in place of whole dried allspice berries, or you can use ground cloves in place of your ground allspice.
Cloves have a much more bitter taste when they are used on their own, and so, if you are using them in a recipe in place of allspice, then you will need far less of them in comparison.
For example, if your recipe calls for two teaspoons of allspice powder, then you would only use one teaspoon of ground cloves.
Cloves work especially well in a sweet dish in place of allspice. They add warmth and depth, especially when baked into a cake or used in a fruit dish.
If you are using cloves in place of allspice in a savory recipe then you may miss the hit of pepper that allspice can give you. You can, if you wish, add in either ground black pepper or whole black peppercorns to help add in that peppery savory taste.
Many people use allspice berries in drinks such as mulled wine and hot cider to add some depth and a wintry spice. You can certainly use cloves in place of these berries.
Add in some whole cloves, ensuring to take them out before serving – trust us, as fragrant as they are, crunching on a whole clove is not a pleasant experience!
Nutmeg
Nutmeg is a delicious and distinct spice that adds warmth and depth to may a recipe that we know and love.
Unlike allspice, nutmeg lacks a pepper taste, meaning it may not be as suitable in savory recipes unless some pepper is added alongside it. However, in sweet recipes, nutmeg can be used in place of allspice to great effect.
You can buy nutmeg whole or ground. For this purpose, we highly recommend that you use ground nutmeg. It can replace ground allspice in all of your favorite baked recipes.
One thing to bear in mind is that nutmeg, as delicious as it is, can quickly overpower the other flavors of your dish. For this reason, we recommend that you err on the side of caution and use less nutmeg than you would allspice.
Our recommendation would be to use a ratio of 2:1. So, if your recipe calls for one teaspoon of allspice, you can try half a teaspoon of ground nutmeg.
If you can, we recommend tasting in between each addition of nutmeg. However, if you are baking something that cannot be tasted, always use the ratio 2:1, so as not to overpower your delicious bake.
Whilst we recommend nutmeg for sweet recipes, there are times when you may have this as the only substitute for your savory recipes too.
You should use the same ratio as in a sweet recipe, but also add in a quarter teaspoon of ground black pepper for every half a teaspoon of nutmeg.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is probably the most common substitute on this list (seriously though, if you don’t have this in your store cupboard then you need to get to the grocery store pronto!). This one is easy peasy.
As you can imagine, cinnamon shares many of the same elements as allspice with its warmth, sweet earthiness, and depth. It can be used in sweet and savory recipes.
What’s more, you can use cinnamon like for like. What we mean is that for every teaspoon of allspice you need, you can use a teaspoon of cinnamon in its place.
Of course, as you know, allspice has that peppery bite. Cinnamon does not. If you need that pepper flavor, simply add a quarter of a teaspoon of ground black pepper for those savory dishes.
Black pepper will not be needed for your sweet dishes. It is likely that any sweet dish that calls for allspice may also use cinnamon. If this is the case for your recipe you can simply use extra cinnamon!
A mixture of cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon
We have discussed the use of cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg separately in place of allspice, however, perhaps an even better substitute is to use all three of them together!
As you know, the flavor of allspice is a mixture of all three of these flavors. With this in mind, you could make your own ‘DIY’ allspice using a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
For this particular substitute, we recommend using ground versions of all three of them. This way they will all blend far more easily.
With this in mind, you should only use this in place of ground allspice. To replace the whole allspice you can use one of the other substitutions above.
The amounts needed of each of these ingredients are as follows: – 3.5 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, 1.5 teaspoons of ground nutmeg, and a quarter of a teaspoon of ground cloves.
Whisk all three of these spices together. You can then decant this into a jar if you wish, ready for use when needed. We recommend that you use one teaspoon of this DIY mix for one teaspoon of allspice.
If you are making a savory recipe, you may also want to add in a quarter of a teaspoon of ground black pepper.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some common substitutes for allspice in recipes?
Some common substitutes for allspice in recipes include cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. You can also use a combination of these spices to create a flavor profile similar to allspice. For instance, you can mix equal parts of cinnamon and nutmeg, or use 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon each of nutmeg and cloves.
Which ingredients combine to create an allspice alternative?
To create an allspice alternative, you can combine cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. A simple recipe is to mix 2 parts cinnamon, 1 part nutmeg, and 1 part ground cloves. Adjust the proportions according to your taste preferences.
How can I replace whole allspice with ground allspice?
If a recipe calls for whole allspice and you only have ground allspice, you can easily substitute it. One whole allspice berry is approximately equal to 1/8 teaspoon of ground allspice. So, if a recipe calls for four whole allspice berries, you would use 1/2 teaspoon of ground allspice.
Is pumpkin pie spice a suitable replacement for allspice?
Yes, pumpkin pie spice can be a suitable replacement for allspice in some recipes. Pumpkin pie spice typically contains cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves – all of which are present in allspice. However, using pumpkin pie spice may slightly alter the flavor of your dish. If you decide to use it, start with a 1:1 substitution ratio and adjust to taste.
What is the alternative name for allspice?
Allspice is also known as Jamaica pepper, myrtle pepper, pimento, or newspice. These alternative names come from its origin in Jamaica and its resemblance to the flavors of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
Can I use all-purpose seasoning instead of allspice?
All-purpose seasoning may not be a suitable substitute for allspice, as it typically contains a variety of herbs and spices that may not complement the flavors of your dish. Some all-purpose seasonings also include salt, which could affect the balance of your recipe. It is better to use a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, or another spice combination mentioned above to replicate the flavor of allspice.
What is the same as allspice?
You may have need for some allspice in a tasty recipe you are about to cook up, but, oh no! You are all out of allspice! What should you do? Easy-peasy, you can substitute it.
There are a few ways to substitute it and make up a mixture of spices, so you can get as close as you can to having actual allspice, without having actual allspice
A great substitute for allspice would be a mixture of nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves all mixed together. If you are missing out on the nutmeg, you could also use half a teaspoon of cinnamon and half a teaspoon of ground cloves and get a decent result.
Make sure they are all ground up when you make this mixture. You can do this in as large an amount as you want to make your own allspice.
What spices are in ground allspice?
Allspice contains four key spices in its composition. All spice is a combination of all the flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and pepper.
These are all very warm spices in their flavors and use in foods. It can be used for many purposes that you may find these spices are usually used for in cooking, or it could also be used as a substitute for these spices in some cases.
Allspice is used in cooking and baking. You can also get allspice berries which can be added to meats, often dark meats such as beef and lamb to add an extra flavor, much like you would add garlic.
These spices are often used for warmer foods, such as Cincinnati-style chili, Jamaican jerk chicken and much more, to give it that extra kick of flavor.
Can I use mixed spice instead of allspice?
While you may think that you could use mixed spice as a substitute for allspice, it is not the same.
The flavor of allspice is a combination of cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg (all spices) and the flavor of this mixture is actually rather mild, and it is a somewhat, almost fruity version of cloves.
On the other hand, mixed spice is a mixture of sweeter spices such as; coriander seed, cassia, cinnamon quills, allspice, nutmeg, and cloves.
It is a mixture of spices, but its flavor is a lot milder than allspice, so as much as this may seem like a good substitute, it will not quite pack the punch that you would get in allspice.
Mixed spice is often used in similar recipes to allspice, but they are not really interchangeable.
That is not to say you cannot try to use them interchangeably if you are feeling ambitious, just do not expect to get amazing results all the time.
Can I substitute five spice for allspice?
Allspice is a mixture of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, which makes it a warm combination of spices. You can get allspice berries which resemble peppercorns.
These are typically used to season meats, stews and pickles. Ground allspice is often added to the dry mix of baked goods to give it that warm spice flavor.
The warm sweet and spicy flavor from allspice is often mistaken for Chinese five spice which is a blend of anise, cinnamon, star anise, and ginger.
This too is a warm spice mix. They both taste warm and kind of spicy-sweet in meat dishes or baked goods.
So, as much as you would think that five spice is not a good alternative for allspice, it actually is as its flavors are similar enough that it gives off a deliciously warm and spicy flavor just like allspice.
Summary
There you have it! Our ultimate guide to allspice substitutions. As you can see, there are a plethora of choices to suit all recipes.
Happy cooking!
Our Best Substitute For Allspice
These options are sure to be a hit. So, gather your family and friends and enjoy. Let us know your thoughts!
Cassie brings decades of experience to the Kitchen Community. She is a noted chef and avid gardener. Her new book "Healthy Eating Through the Garden" will be released shortly. When not writing or speaking about food and gardens Cassie can be found puttering around farmer's markets and greenhouses looking for the next great idea.
