Out of Apple pie spice, one case
Apple pie spice substitute, in depth
6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Cinnamon + nutmeg + allspice
Per 1 tsp apple pie spice
½ tsp cinnamon + ¼ tsp nutmeg + ¼ tsp allspice
The best substitutes for apple pie spice are cinnamon + nutmeg + allspice (1 tsp = ½ tsp cinnamon + ¼ tsp nutmeg + ¼ tsp allspice), pumpkin pie spice (1:1), or a homemade blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and ginger. Each substitute works well in baking and cooking applications.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- apple pies
One casethe full apple pie spice card
Why it works
Apple pie spiceApple pie spice is a carefully balanced blend of warm, aromatic spices that work together to create the good flavor for apple desserts. The recommended substitutes work because they either replicate the exact spice combination or provide similar flavor profiles that complement apple-based dishes. Each substitute maintains the warm, comforting essence that makes apple pie spice so beloved while offering different levels of complexity and convenience.
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of 1 tsp apple pie spice |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cinnamon + nutmeg + allspiceapple pies | ½ tsp cinnamon + ¼ tsp nutmeg + ¼ tsp allspiceWorks |
| 2 | Pumpkin pie spiceapple desserts | Same amountUse same amount |
| 3 | Homemade apple pie spice blendwhen you want custom flavor | Same amountUse same amount |
| 4 | Cinnamon + ginger + clovesapple desserts | ½ tsp cinnamon + ¼ tsp ginger + ¼ tsp cloves |
| 5 | Cinnamon + allspiceapple desserts | ¾ tsp cinnamon + ¼ tsp allspice |
| 6 | Cinnamon + cardamom + nutmegelegant desserts | ½ tsp cinnamon + ¼ tsp cardamom + ¼ tsp nutmeg |
Cinnamon + nutmeg + allspice
identical taste and texture
The classic combination that forms the foundation of apple pie spice. This blend provides the authentic warm, aromatic flavor that defines apple pie spice.
- Best for
- apple pies, apple crisp, apple muffins, apple cakes, apple cookies, apple butter, apple sauce
This is the most traditional and authentic substitute. Mix these three spices in the specified ratio for the closest match to commercial apple pie spice.
Pumpkin pie spice
very similar · identical texture
Commercial spice blend that contains cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and ginger - very similar to apple pie spice with slightly different proportions.
- Best for
- apple desserts, pumpkin recipes, fall baking, spiced drinks, when you need convenience
Pumpkin pie spice is virtually identical to apple pie spice and can be used as a direct 1:1 substitute. The flavor difference is minimal.
Homemade apple pie spice blend
customizable · identical texture
Make your own custom apple pie spice blend using individual spices. Gives you complete control over the flavor profile and intensity.
- Best for
- when you want custom flavor, large batch baking, when you have individual spices, gift giving
Mix 2 tsp cinnamon, ½ tsp nutmeg, ½ tsp allspice, and ¼ tsp ginger. Store in an airtight container for up to 6 months.
Cinnamon + ginger + cloves
warmer · identical texture
Alternative blend that adds warmth and complexity with cloves. Provides a slightly different but equally delicious flavor profile.
- Best for
- apple desserts, spiced cakes, cookies, hot drinks, when you want extra warmth
Cloves add more warmth and intensity. Use sparingly as they can be overpowering if used in excess.
Cinnamon + allspice
simplified · identical texture
Simplified two-spice blend that captures the essential flavors of apple pie spice. Good when you have limited spices available.
- Best for
- apple desserts, simple baking, quick recipes, when you have limited spices
This basic combination works well when you don't have nutmeg or ginger available. It's simple but effective.
Cinnamon + cardamom + nutmeg
elevated · identical texture
Elegant blend that adds cardamom for a more sophisticated flavor profile. Good for special occasions and gourmet baking.
- Best for
- elegant desserts, special occasions, when you want unique flavor, gourmet baking
Cardamom adds a sophisticated, slightly citrusy note that elevates the traditional apple pie spice blend.
How it behaves in this recipe
When substituting apple pie spice, consider the flavor profile and complexity you want to achieve. The recommended substitutes work because they provide similar functionality to apple pie spice in various baking and cooking applications. Each substitute offers different benefits depending on your specific needs, available ingredients, and desired flavor intensity.
Tips for substituting apple pie spice
10 tips- Apple pie spice works best in fall and winter desserts, but can be used year-round
- Toast whole spices before grinding for more intense, complex flavor
- Store homemade spice blends in airtight containers away from heat and light
- Add apple pie spice to hot apple cider for extra warmth and flavor
- Use in apple butter, apple sauce, and apple compote for enhanced taste
- Good for spiced apple muffins, scones, and quick breads
- Add a pinch to oatmeal or yogurt for a spiced breakfast treat
- Mix with sugar for a spiced sugar topping on desserts
- Use in savory dishes like roasted vegetables or glazed ham
- Add to coffee or tea for a spiced beverage
Notes on apple pie spice
- Create a custom blend using individual spices you have on hand
- Use pumpkin pie spice as a convenient 1:1 substitute
- Adjust spice ratios based on your personal taste preferences
- Consider the specific dish when choosing your substitute
- Experiment with different spice combinations to find your good blend
- Make large batches of homemade blends for convenience
Questions
10 questionsCan I use pumpkin pie spice instead of apple pie spice?
Yes, pumpkin pie spice is an excellent 1:1 substitute for apple pie spice. Both contain cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and ginger, with only minor differences in proportions. The flavor difference is negligible in most recipes.
What spices are in apple pie spice?
Apple pie spice typically contains cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and sometimes ginger. Some commercial blends may also include cloves or cardamom for added complexity and warmth.
Can I make apple pie spice at home?
Absolutely! Mix 2 teaspoons cinnamon, ½ teaspoon nutmeg, ½ teaspoon allspice, and ¼ teaspoon ginger. Store in an airtight container for up to 6 months. You can adjust the ratios to suit your taste preferences.
What's the difference between apple pie spice and pumpkin pie spice?
They're very similar, but pumpkin pie spice typically includes ginger and may have slightly different proportions. Both work well in apple desserts, and the difference is minimal in most applications.
Can I use just cinnamon instead of apple pie spice?
Yes, cinnamon can substitute for apple pie spice, but you'll lose the complexity and depth of the blend. Consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for more authentic flavor.
Do I need to adjust the recipe when substituting apple pie spice?
Generally no ratio adjustment is needed for the recommended substitutes. However, some substitutes may be more or less intense, so taste and adjust as needed. Start with the same amount and modify based on your preferences.
Can I substitute allspice for apple pie spice?
Allspice alone can work as a substitute, but it will be less complex than the full blend. It provides warm, aromatic flavor but lacks the depth of the traditional combination. Consider mixing it with cinnamon for better results.
How long does homemade apple pie spice last?
Homemade apple pie spice will maintain its flavor for 6 months when stored in an airtight container away from heat and light. Whole spices last longer than ground spices, so consider grinding them as needed for maximum freshness.
Can I use apple pie spice in savory dishes?
Yes, apple pie spice works well in savory applications like roasted vegetables, glazed ham, or spiced nuts. The warm spices complement many savory flavors beautifully.
What if I don't have any of the recommended substitutes?
If you don't have the recommended substitutes, use cinnamon as a base and add any warm spices you have available like nutmeg, allspice, ginger, or cloves. Even just cinnamon will work in a pinch, though the flavor will be simpler.