What can I substitute for ground allspice?
Running low on ground allspice? Here are the best verified substitutes, including how to adjust your measurements.
About ground allspice
Ground allspice is the dried, finely milled berry of the Pimenta dioica tree, native to the Caribbean and Central America. It delivers a complex warm flavour reminiscent of a blend of cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg — hence its name — making it a cornerstone spice in Jamaican cuisine, Middle Eastern cookery, and baked goods. Its aromatic depth comes from eugenol, the same compound found in cloves, giving it a distinctive pungency that holds up well in both sweet and savoury applications.
Best substitute
mixed spice blend (cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg)
A DIY blend of equal parts ground cloves, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg closely mimics the complex flavour profile of allspice. This is the most reliable substitute as it replicates the individual aromatic components that allspice naturally contains.
Use 1 tsp of the blended mixture for every 1 tsp of ground allspice
bakingmarinadesstewsspice rubs
Alternative
ground cloves
Ground cloves share the dominant eugenol compound with allspice and provide a similar warm, pungent depth. Because cloves are more intensely flavoured, use a reduced quantity to avoid overpowering the dish.
Use ½ tsp for every 1 tsp of ground allspice
bakingsavoury braisesspice rubsNot suitable for: recipes needing cinnamon notes
Alternative
ground cinnamon
Ground cinnamon captures the warm sweetness of allspice and works well in baked goods and desserts where clove-forward pungency is less critical. It lacks the depth and heat of allspice but is a widely available pantry staple.
Use 1 tsp for every 1 tsp of ground allspice
What is ground allspice called in other countries?
| Country | Name |
|---|---|
| Australia | ground allspice |
| JM | ground pimento |
| United Kingdom | ground allspice |
| United States | ground allspice |
Common names for ground allspice
ground pimentoJamaica peppermyrtle pepperpimenta