Nutmeg Substitutions (for the Holiday Apple Spice Drop Cookies)
Yes—nutmeg is optional in the Apple Spice Drop Cookies and easy to replace. Here are good swaps based on what you have and the flavor you want.
Details
Ingredients
- Ground cinnamon (already in recipe) Increase by 1/4 tsp (replace the 1/4 tsp nutmeg)
- OR ground allspice Use 1/8 to 1/4 tsp (replace nutmeg)
- OR ground cloves Use 1/16 to 1/8 tsp (very strong; replace nutmeg)
- OR ground ginger Use 1/4 tsp (replace nutmeg)
- OR pumpkin pie spice / apple pie spice Use 1/2 tsp total spice blend; reduce cinnamon slightly if desired
- OR cardamom Use 1/8 to 1/4 tsp (more floral; great with apple)
Instructions
- Best simple swap: just leave the nutmeg out and add +1/4 tsp cinnamon—works perfectly.
- If using allspice: start with 1/8 tsp, taste the dough aroma, then go up to 1/4 tsp if you want warmer spice.
- If using cloves: use a tiny amount (1/16–1/8 tsp) so it doesn’t dominate.
- If using ginger: use 1/4 tsp for a gentle warmth that plays well with apple.
- If using a pie-spice blend: add 1/2 tsp and keep cinnamon at 1 tsp instead of 1 1/2 tsp to avoid over-spicing.
Health notes:
Drink pairing: