Cinnamon Substitutes – 5 Best Warm Spice Alternatives
The best substitute for cinnamon is Allspice at a 1/4 to 1/3 tsp allspice per 1 tsp cinnamon ratio. It works best for pumpkin pie, spice cakes, Caribbean dishes. There are 4 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Allspice
1/4 to 1/3 tsp allspice per 1 tsp cinnamon
Allspice is significantly more potent. Start with 1/4 tsp and adjust to taste.
What are the other substitutes for cinnamon?
Nutmeg
1/4 to 1/2 tsp nutmeg per 1 tsp cinnamon
Nutmeg is more potent and has a different warmth. Start with 1/4 tsp.
Cardamom
1 tsp cinnamon = 1/2 tsp cardamom
Warm and aromatic with citrusy, floral notes. A different flavor profile but works well in sweet and savory dishes.
Pumpkin Pie Spice
1 tsp cinnamon = 1 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
Already contains cinnamon plus nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Use slightly more since cinnamon is diluted with other spices.
Apple Pie Spice
1 tsp cinnamon = 1 1/2 tsp apple pie spice
Similar to pumpkin pie spice with cinnamon as the dominant flavor. Use a bit more to compensate for the blend.
What should you know before substituting cinnamon?
Ceylon cinnamon (true cinnamon) is milder and sweeter than cassia cinnamon, which is more common in the US. For savory dishes like curries, a cinnamon stick provides gentler flavor than ground-simmer and remove before serving.
How do you substitute cinnamon in a recipe?
A warm, sweet spice made from the inner bark of Cinnamomum trees, widely used in baking, beverages, curries, and spice blends.
The best substitute for cinnamon depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Allspice (1/4 to 1/3 tsp allspice per 1 tsp cinnamon), which works well for pumpkin pie, spice cakes, Caribbean dishes.
If you need a different option, Nutmeg (1/4 to 1/2 tsp nutmeg per 1 tsp cinnamon) is another reliable choice. Nutmeg is more potent and has a different warmth. Start with 1/4 tsp.
When substituting cinnamon, consider the flavor profile, texture, and cooking method of your recipe. For vegan alternatives, look for the options marked with the vegan badge above.
Substitution ratios verified against USDA FoodData Central. See our testing methodology for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What spice is most similar to cinnamon?
Allspice is the most similar single spice, as it naturally contains flavor compounds found in cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Use 1/4 teaspoon allspice per 1 teaspoon cinnamon.
Can I use pumpkin pie spice instead of cinnamon?
Yes, pumpkin pie spice contains cinnamon as its main ingredient. Use about 1 1/2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice per teaspoon of cinnamon since it's blended with other spices.
What is the difference between Ceylon and cassia cinnamon?
Ceylon (true cinnamon) is milder, slightly sweet, and more delicate. Cassia cinnamon, sold in most US stores, is bolder, spicier, and less expensive. Both work in recipes but may need ratio adjustments.