What can I substitute for ground nutmeg?
Running low on ground nutmeg? Here are the best verified substitutes, including how to adjust your measurements.
About ground nutmeg
Ground nutmeg is the finely milled seed kernel of Myristica fragrans, a tropical evergreen tree native to Indonesia. It delivers a warm, sweet, and slightly woody flavour with faintly peppery and earthy undertones, making it a versatile spice in both sweet and savoury cooking. It is particularly prized in baked goods, béchamel sauce, custards, and spiced drinks such as eggnog.
Best substitute
ground mace
Mace is the dried outer aril of the same nutmeg fruit, so it shares nearly identical flavour compounds — it is slightly more delicate and floral but is the closest possible substitute. No preparation is needed; use it in a straight swap.
Use 1 tsp for every 1 tsp of ground nutmeg
bakingsaucescustardsspiced drinks
Alternative
ground allspice
Allspice carries a similar warm, sweet-spicy profile with notes of clove, cinnamon, and nutmeg combined, making it a reliable stand-in. Use a slightly smaller amount as it is more pungent and can overpower delicate recipes.
Use ¾ tsp for every 1 tsp of ground nutmeg
bakingspiced drinkssavoury dishesNot suitable for: delicate custards
Alternative
ground cinnamon
Cinnamon provides a warm, sweet spice flavour that works well as a substitute in baked goods and desserts, though it lacks the earthy, peppery depth of nutmeg. Use a slightly smaller quantity to avoid overwhelming the dish with cinnamon's more assertive sweetness.
Use ½ tsp for every 1 tsp of ground nutmeg
What is ground nutmeg called in other countries?
| Country | Name |
|---|---|
| Australia | ground nutmeg |
| Canada | ground nutmeg |
| New Zealand | ground nutmeg |
| United Kingdom | ground nutmeg |
| United States | ground nutmeg |
Common names for ground nutmeg
powdered nutmegnutmeg powdergrated nutmeg