The best cloves substitute is usually allspice, especially when you need one warm spice that can stand in for clove-like flavor. Cinnamon, nutmeg, mace, cardamom, ginger, and pumpkin pie spice can also work, but use them carefully because cloves are strong, sharp, and slightly bitter.
Best Cloves Substitutes by Use
| Substitute | Best for | Starting amount |
|---|---|---|
| Allspice | Cookies, cakes, pies, ham glaze, stews, spice blends | Use about 1:1 or slightly less |
| Cinnamon | Fruit desserts, oatmeal, drinks, muffins, quick breads | Use 1:1 for mild recipes, then adjust |
| Nutmeg or mace | Custards, cakes, cream sauces, French toast | Use half as much at first |
| Cardamom | Chai, buns, rice pudding, citrus desserts | Use half as much at first |
| Ginger | Gingerbread, pumpkin desserts, spice cookies, tea | Use half to 1:1 depending on heat |
| Pumpkin pie spice | Pumpkin pie, muffins, coffee drinks, holiday desserts | Use 1:1 if the blend fits the recipe |
Closest Single-Spice Swap
Allspice is the closest single-spice substitute because it has warm clove, cinnamon, and nutmeg-like notes. It is still not identical, so start with a little less in delicate desserts or sauces.
Best Substitute for Baking
For cookies, cakes, quick breads, and fruit desserts, use allspice, cinnamon, nutmeg, mace, ginger, or a warm baking spice blend. Pumpkin pie spice works when cinnamon, ginger, allspice, and nutmeg all fit the recipe.
Best Substitute for Savory Cooking
For ham glaze, braises, stews, chutneys, barbecue sauce, or pickling-style flavors, start with allspice or a tiny pinch of cinnamon plus nutmeg. Add slowly because too much warm spice can make savory food taste medicinal or sweet.
Whole Cloves vs Ground Cloves
Ground cloves taste much stronger because they spread through the whole dish. A common starting point is about 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves for 3 to 4 whole cloves. If you are substituting the other direction, use whole cloves only when they can be removed before serving.
FAQ
What is the best substitute for cloves?
Allspice is usually the closest single-spice substitute. Cinnamon, nutmeg, mace, cardamom, ginger, or pumpkin pie spice can also work depending on the recipe.
Can I use allspice instead of cloves?
Yes. Allspice has clove-like warmth, so start with about the same amount or a little less if the recipe is delicate.
Can cinnamon replace cloves?
Cinnamon can replace some of the warmth of cloves, but it is sweeter and less sharp. It works best in baked goods, oatmeal, drinks, and fruit desserts.
How much ground cloves equals whole cloves?
A common starting point is about 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves for 3 to 4 whole cloves, but use less first because ground cloves are strong.
Can I leave cloves out of a recipe?
Sometimes. If cloves are only a small background spice, you can omit them or use a warm spice blend. If cloves are the main flavor, use allspice or a careful blend instead.