Cinnamon is a warm, comforting spice that shows up in everything from apple pie and cinnamon rolls to curries and chai. But what if you’re out of it—or want to try something new? Whether you’re baking, making spice blends, or cooking savory dishes, there’s a cinnamon substitute for nearly every purpose.
Fortunately, there are several spices that can mimic cinnamon’s warmth, sweetness, and subtle spiciness, allowing you to finish your recipe without running to the store.
Let’s break down the best cinnamon alternatives based on flavor, intensity, and how to use them.
Table of Contents
Quick Answer: Top Cinnamon Substitutes
Here are the best substitutes for cinnamon based on common uses:
- Nutmeg – Sweet and warm, great for baked goods
- Allspice – Strong and spicy, perfect for spice blends and desserts
- Cloves – Potent and aromatic, ideal in small doses
- Ginger – Adds warmth with a zingy edge
- Cardamom – Sweet, floral, and slightly peppery
- Pumpkin pie spice – A pre-mixed blend often including cinnamon
Choose your substitute based on the recipe and whether cinnamon is the main flavor or just a supporting note.
Best Cinnamon Substitutes for Baking
1. Nutmeg
Best for: Cakes, cookies, muffins, and quick breads
- Flavor profile: Warm, nutty, slightly sweet
- Substitute ratio: Use ½ the amount of cinnamon
Nutmeg is the closest match to cinnamon in sweet recipes. It’s less sweet but provides a rich, comforting warmth. Grate fresh nutmeg for the best flavor.
2. Allspice
Best for: Pies, spice cookies, and fall desserts
- Flavor profile: A mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove
- Substitute ratio: Use ¼ to ½ the amount of cinnamon
Allspice is strong, so go easy. It’s excellent in spice blends or any dish that needs a bold, aromatic touch.
3. Pumpkin Pie Spice
Best for: Pancakes, muffins, oatmeal, and baked goods
- Flavor profile: A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves
- Substitute ratio: Use equal amount as cinnamon
This ready-made blend is ideal when you’re baking and want a familiar spice warmth. Great for fall recipes or when making seasonal treats.
Best Cinnamon Substitutes for Savory Dishes
4. Cloves
Best for: Curries, stews, roasted vegetables
- Flavor profile: Intense, sweet, and peppery
- Substitute ratio: Use ¼ the amount of cinnamon
Cloves are bold—just a little goes a long way. They work well in savory dishes or spice rubs for meat but can overpower if overused.
5. Cardamom
Best for: Indian and Middle Eastern dishes, rice puddings
- Flavor profile: Sweet, floral, citrusy
- Substitute ratio: Use equal or slightly less than cinnamon
Cardamom offers a complex, fragrant warmth. It’s wonderful in both sweet and savory recipes like chai tea or spiced rice.
6. Ginger
Best for: Cookies, curries, marinades, and spice blends
- Flavor profile: Spicy, zesty, slightly sweet
- Substitute ratio: Use ½ to equal amount of cinnamon
Ginger has a brighter, sharper flavor. It’s not an exact match but adds a similar warmth, especially in spice mixes or stir-fries.
Cinnamon Substitute by Recipe Type
| Recipe Type | Best Substitute(s) | Why It Works |
| Apple pie | Nutmeg + allspice | Matches the warm and sweet profile |
| Banana bread | Pumpkin pie spice | Adds depth and balance |
| Chai tea or lattes | Cardamom + ginger | Complex, cozy spice profile |
| Chili or curry | Cloves or cumin + ginger | Adds earthiness and spice |
| Granola or oatmeal | Nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice | Gentle warmth and sweetness |
| Spice blends | Allspice + ginger | Mimics cinnamon’s aromatic complexity |
DIY Cinnamon Blend (No Cinnamon)
If you’re completely out of cinnamon but still want that cozy spiced feel, try this blend:
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- ½ tsp allspice
- ¼ tsp cloves
- Optional: ¼ tsp cardamom or ginger
This mix replicates cinnamon’s profile and works well in baking or oatmeal.
Using Extracts as a Substitute
If you’re working on a dessert or drink, a few drops of cinnamon extract or a spiced extract blend can also work.
- Use 1/8 tsp of extract per 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- Ideal for custards, syrups, and sauces
Be cautious—extracts are potent and should be added slowly.
What to Avoid as Cinnamon Substitutes
Some spices may seem like good options but don’t quite match the cinnamon flavor:
- Cumin – too earthy and savory for sweets
- Coriander – citrusy and not warm enough
- Paprika – smoky and sweet but lacks the spice warmth
Stick with warm spices that share cinnamon’s aromatic, sweet flavor to avoid clashing with your dish.
FAQs About Cinnamon Substitutes
1. Can I skip cinnamon in a recipe?
Yes, but the dish will lack some depth. Use nutmeg, allspice, or a spice blend to fill the gap.
2. What’s the best substitute for cinnamon in apple pie?
A combo of nutmeg and allspice gives the closest match in both aroma and taste.
3. Can I use cinnamon sugar instead of cinnamon?
Yes, for garnishing or light flavoring. Keep in mind it adds extra sweetness.
4. Is pumpkin pie spice the same as cinnamon?
Not exactly—it’s a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. It’s a great substitute in sweet recipes.
5. What’s the best cinnamon alternative for tea?
Try cardamom or ginger, or both, for a flavorful and soothing cup.
Running out of cinnamon doesn’t mean your recipe is ruined. With a little creativity and the right substitution, you can still achieve that warm, cozy flavor in both sweet and savory dishes.
From nutmeg and allspice to cardamom and ginger, there are plenty of spices that can stand in for cinnamon and give your meals a delicious twist.
