Cinnamon is a popular spice that is often used in baking. However, sometimes it can be difficult to find cinnamon when you need it.
In this article, I will provide a list of substitute spices for cinnamon that I’ve been using in my own recipes.
These substitutes will allow you to easily swap out the cinnamon for an alternative that tastes the same or similar.
We hope you find this information helpful.
Let’s start!
Substitutes For Cinnamon:
- Pumpkin Pie Spice
- Cranberry Sauce
- Cassia
- Nutmeg
- Allspice
- Ground Cinnamon
- Mace
- Cloves
- Cardamom
- Ginger
Pumpkin Pie Spice
Pumpkin pie spice is a great substitute for cinnamon and there are many benefits of using this.
Pumpkin pie spice is a blend of spices, so it has a more complex flavor than cinnamon. This makes it ideal for recipes that call for several spices.
Pumpkin pie spice is also less likely to burn than cinnamon, so it’s perfect for baked goods.
Finally, pumpkin pie spice is more readily available than cinnamon, so it’s a good choice if you don’t have cinnamon on hand.
When substituting pumpkin pie spice for cinnamon, keep in mind that it will change the flavor of the dish slightly.
One important thing to note is that Pumpkin pie spice is sweeter than cinnamon, so it may make the dish too sweet if you use too much.
Cranberry Sauce
While cranberry sauce may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of cinnamon, it can be a great substitute in many recipes.
For one, cranberry sauce is less likely to overpower other flavors in a dish the way cinnamon can.
Additionally, cranberry sauce can help add a touch of sweetness without making a dish excessively sugary.
Finally, cranberry sauce can add beautiful color to a dish that might otherwise be bland-looking.
Cassia
Cassia is a perfect substitute for cinnamon. Cassia is a type of cinnamon that is more widely available and generally less expensive.
It has a similar flavor to cinnamon, with a slightly more robust spice profile.
When substituting cassia for cinnamon, you may want to use a little less than the recipe calls for, as cassia can be quite potent.
Additionally, cassia is a great substitute for cinnamon in savory dishes. Its bold flavor pairs well with roasted meats and flavorful vegetables.
Nutmeg
As a substitute for cinnamon, nutmeg is inexpensive and easy to find. Plus, it has a similar flavor profile, making it a great choice for baking.
In addition, nutmeg is effective in small quantities, so you don’t need to use as much to get the same flavor.
When substituting nutmeg for cinnamon, it’s important to keep in mind that the flavor is slightly different.
Note: Nutmeg is also sweeter than cinnamon, so it may change the taste of your recipe slightly.
Allspice
Allspice, also known as pimenta dioica, is a dried fruit that comes from the tropical evergreen tree of the same name.
Allspice is used as a spice in both sweet and savory dishes, and it has a flavor that is similar to a combination of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
In European cuisine, allspice is often used in pickling recipes and as a component of spice mixes such as quatre épices.
It can also be used to flavor baked goods, jams, and preserves.
When substituting allspice for cinnamon, it is important to keep in mind that allspice is more potent than cinnamon.
As a result, you will need to use less allspice than cinnamon to achieve the desired flavor.
Additionally, allspice has a more complex flavor than cinnamon, so it may not be suitable for all recipes.
Ground Cinnamon
Ground cinnamon as a substitute for cinnamon can be used in many recipes.
When baking pies, for example, ground cinnamon can be used in place of the more traditional cinnamon stick.
When substituting ground cinnamon for cinnamon, it is important to use a lighter hand, as the ground spice is more potent than the whole sticks.
Another popular use for ground cinnamon is in savory dishes such as curries and stews.
Here, the spice adds depth of flavor and a subtle sweetness to the dish.
When substituting ground cinnamon for other spices, it is important to experiment to find the right balance, as too much cinnamon can overwhelm other flavors.
Ground cinnamon can also be used as a replacement for sugar in some recipes.
Because of its inherent sweetness, a small amount of ground cinnamon can be used to sweeten coffee or tea. When substituting ground cinnamon for sugar, it is important to start with a small amount and increase it to taste.
Mace
Mace is a type of spice that is derived from the outer shell of the nutmeg seed.
It has a warm, pungent flavor that is similar to cinnamon. Mace can be used in sweet and savory dishes, as well as in drinks.
It is commonly used in baking, such as in cakes, cookies, and pies. Mace can also be used to flavor soups, stews, sauces, and vegetables.
Keep in mind that mace is more potent than cinnamon, so you may need to adjust the amount you use to suit your taste.
Additionally, mace will impart a slight yellow color to dishes.
Cloves
Cloves and cinnamon both have a warm, spicy flavor that can add a touch of sweetness to dishes. However, they are not interchangeable.
Here are some tips for using cloves as a substitute for cinnamon.
Cloves have a stronger flavor than cinnamon, so you may want to start with less and then add more to taste.
Cloves are also more pungent than cinnamon, so they are best used in recipes where they can be balanced by other flavors.
For instance, they pair well with chocolate, nuts, and fruits. Finally, keep in mind that substituting cloves for cinnamon will change the flavor of your dish.
Cardamom
Cardamom can be used as a substitute for cinnamon in many recipes. It has a similar flavor profile, with a warm, spicy aroma and a slightly sweet taste.
However, cardamom is also slightly earthier and more complex than cinnamon, making it a good choice for dishes that require a more sophisticated flavor.
Keep in mind that cardamom is a strong spice, so you may want to start with less and add more to taste.
Additionally, cardamom is often sold in pods rather than ground.
To use whole pods, bruise them with the back of a knife to release their flavor, then add them to the dish along with other ingredients.
When the dish is finished cooking, remove the pods before serving.
Ginger
While both ginger and cinnamon are spices with a long history of use in cooking, they are quite different in terms of taste and texture.
Cinnamon is a hard, dry spice that is used to add flavor and sweetness to recipes, while ginger is a root that has a slightly spicy, earthy flavor.
However, ginger can be used as a substitute for cinnamon in some recipes.
For example, if you are making a curry or other dish that calls for cinnamon, you can use ginger instead.
The two spices have similar flavor profiles, so ginger will not drastically change the taste of the dish.
Additionally, ginger has numerous health benefits, including the ability to help with digestion and inflammation.
Therefore, using ginger as a substitute for cinnamon can be beneficial for your health.
Finally, ginger is more widely available than cinnamon, so it is an ideal substitute if you cannot find cinnamon at your local grocery store.
Commonly Asked Questions When Choosing Substitutes For Cinnamon
What is the best substitute for cinnamon?
There are many substitutes for cinnamon, including mace, cloves, cardamom, and ginger.
The best substitute for cinnamon will depend on your personal preferences and the recipe you are making.
Can I use ground cinnamon as a substitute for sugar?
Yes, ground cinnamon can be used as a substitute for sugar.
Cinnamon is a natural sweetener that can add flavor and sweetness to recipes without the use of sugar.
Conclusion
There are many substitutes for cinnamon, each with its unique flavor. The best substitute for cinnamon will depend on your personal preferences and the recipe you are making.
When choosing a substitute for cinnamon, keep in mind the flavor profile of the spice and how it will impact the taste of your dish.
Happy cooking!