9 Best Substitutes For Allspice Berries

Allspice berries are commonly used in Caribbean cuisine.

They add a unique flavor to dishes such as jerk chicken or pork.

Unfortunately, they aren’t always readily available.

If you want to enjoy their flavors at home, check out these 9 alternatives.


Allspice berries come from the pimento tree.

The fruit has a spicy aroma and flavor, similar to cinnamon.

They also contain antioxidants and other nutrients.

There are several substitutes for allspice berries.

Some include cloves, nutmeg, ginger, cardamom, black pepper, and vanilla beans.

These spices can be substituted for allspice berries in recipes

Best Substitutes For Allspice Berries

Allspice berries are used in many dishes such as meatballs, soups, stews, baked goods, and even cocktails. These berries are native to Jamaica and Central America. This spice is very versatile and can be used in many different ways. It is usually added to dishes during the last 15 minutes of cooking. It is also used as a seasoning in sauces and gravies.

1. Whole Allspice Berries

You can substitute whole allspice berries for ground allspice in any recipe. Just grind the whole berries using a mortar and pestle or coffee grinder.
2. Ground Allspice
Answer: Ground allspice is available in stores and online. To make your own, place whole allspice berries in a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast until fragrant, about 3 minutes. Let cool completely, then grind in a spice mill or coffee grinder. Store in an airtight jar.

2. Cloves

Cloves are used in many dishes. They are usually added to stews, soups, sauces, and baked goods. They can also be used as a garnish.
3. Cinnamon
Cinnamon is used in baking, desserts, and savory dishes. It adds a sweet flavor to breads, muffins, cookies, and other baked goods.

3. Nutmeg

Nutmeg is used in baking, dessert recipes, and savory dishes such as meatloaf. It is also used as a spice in drinks.
4. Ginger
Ginger is used in Asian cuisine. It is used in soups, stir-fries, curries, and other dishes.

4. Cinnamon

3. Nutmeg
Nutmegs are native to India and Indonesia. They are dried fruits that resemble tiny pineapples. They are usually found in whole form but sometimes ground into powder. They are used in baked goods, desserts, and savory dishes.
4. Ginger

5. Pumpkin Pie Spice + Pepper

Cinnamon is a spice derived from the bark of cinnamon trees. It is used in baking, beverages, and other culinary applications. Cinnamon is available in many forms such as sticks, powders, and granules. Cinnamon is used in sweet treats like cookies, pies, and pastries. Cinnamon is also added to coffee drinks and tea.
Ginger is a root vegetable that grows in tropical climates. It is used in Asian cuisine and is popularly known as gingerroot. Ginger is used in soups, salads, sauces, and stir-fry dishes. It is also used in pickling and preserves.
Pumpkin pie spice is a blend of spices that includes nutmeg, cloves, cinnamon, ginger, and allspice. Pumpkin pie spice is used in pumpkin pie, pumpkin breads, and pumpkin muffins.

6. Five-Spice Powder

Five-spice powder is a mixture of five different spices: star anise, fennel seed, Szechuan peppercorn, clove, and cinnamon. This spice mix is used in Chinese cuisine.
7. Garlic Powder
Garlic powder is a seasoning that contains garlic. It is used in baked goods, sauces, salad dressings, dips, and spreads.

7. DIY Spice Blend

8. Chili Powder
Chili powder is a blend of dried chilies, cumin, coriander, and other spices. It is used in Mexican dishes, such as tacos, burritos, enchiladas, and nachos.

8. Star Anise

7. DIY Spice Blend
9. Garam Masala
Garam masala is a spice mixture used in Indian cuisine. It consists of black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, nutmeg, mace, ginger, and bay leaves.

9. Apple Pie Spice

8. Star Anise
Star anise is a spice native to China and Southeast Asia. It is a dried fruit pod with a sweet flavor similar to licorice. It is used primarily in Chinese and Vietnamese cuisines.
7. DIY Spice Mix

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does it take to make homemade spice mix?
It takes about 2 hours to make homemade spice mix.

What Does Allspice Taste Like?

Allspice is a type of berry from the myrtle tree. It is used in many dishes such as soups, stews, sauces, breads, and desserts.
2. How long does it usually take to make homemade tomato sauce?
It usually takes about 1 hour to make homemade tomato sauce.

How Long Does Allspice Last?

Allspice lasts for about 2 years if stored properly.
3. How Do I Make Homemade Tomato Sauce?
You can make homemade tomato sauce in under 30 minutes.

Where Can I Buy Allspice?

Allspice is available from spice shops and online retailers.