Cooking Substitutions, Recalculated

What can I use instead of cinnamon?

Best substitute for 1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp nutmeg
Nutmeg — Stronger - use half.
tsp
Amounts below are for 1 tsp cinnamon

4 substitutes for cinnamon

SubstituteUse this muchNotes
Nutmeg1/2 tsp nutmegStronger - use half.
Allspice1 tsp allspiceWarmer; 1:1.
Pumpkin pie spice1 tsp pumpkin pie spiceBlend that includes cinnamon.
Cardamom1/2 tsp cardamomDistinct flavor; use half.

Cinnamon is a warm, sweet baking spice. Other warm spices and blends stand in, but the potent ones need a lighter hand.

Tips

  • Nutmeg and cardamom are potent - start with half.
  • Pumpkin pie spice is the easiest 1:1 blend swap.

FAQ

What's a good cinnamon substitute?
Allspice or pumpkin pie spice 1:1, or half as much nutmeg.
Is nutmeg like cinnamon?
Both are warm spices; nutmeg is stronger, so use about half.