Quick Answer
Yes, you can substitute pumpkin pie spice for allspice in most recipes. Pumpkin pie spice contains some of the same spices as allspice, including cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. The key differences are that pumpkin pie spice has more cinnamon while allspice contains nutmeg. Adjusting the amounts can help balance the flavor profile. Start by using 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice for every 1/2 teaspoon of allspice called for. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Pumpkin Pie Spice vs Allspice
Pumpkin pie spice and allspice may seem interchangeable since they both contain warm spice flavors. But there are some key differences in the blend of spices:
Pumpkin Pie Spice Typically Contains:
- Cinnamon
- Ginger
- Nutmeg
- Cloves
Cinnamon is the dominant spice, giving pumpkin pie spice its distinctive reddish-brown color.
Allspice Typically Contains:
- Clove
- Cinnamon
- Nutmeg
- Black pepper
Allspice has a more balanced flavor profile with the four spices being present in roughly equal amounts. This gives allspice a complex, nuanced warmth.
So while there is some overlap with cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, the amounts differ. Allspice also contains nutmeg while pumpkin pie spice sometimes excludes it.
Substitution Ratio
Because of the difference in spice blends, you’ll need to adjust the amounts when substituting pumpkin pie spice for allspice. A 1:1 direct substitution won’t work well.
A general guideline is to use:
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice for every 1/2 teaspoon allspice
So if a recipe calls for 1 teaspoon allspice, use 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice.
This accounts for pumpkin pie spice having more cinnamon than allspice. But depending on the recipe, you may need to adjust the ratio. Taste and add more pumpkin pie spice or other spices if needed.
Sample Substitution Ratios:
| Allspice | Pumpkin Pie Spice |
|---|---|
| 1 teaspoon | 2 teaspoons |
| 1/2 teaspoon | 1 teaspoon |
| 1/4 teaspoon | 1/2 teaspoon |
Start with less pumpkin pie spice and add more to taste if the allspice flavor isn’t coming through. Keep in mind that if a recipe already includes cinnamon separately, you’ll get even more cinnamon flavor from the pumpkin pie spice.
Types of Recipes
Pumpkin pie spice makes a good stand-in for allspice in recipes where warmth is welcome and cinnamon is a complementary flavor. The substitution works well in:
- Baked goods like cookies, muffins, quick breads
- Spice rubs and marinades for meats
- Hearty stews and chilies
- Some beverages like chai tea
For baked goods, start with 1-2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice for every 1/2 to 1 teaspoon allspice. Taste doughs and batters before baking and adjust if needed.
The substitution won’t work as well in more delicately seasoned dishes or where nutmeg is essential. Avoid using pumpkin pie spice in place of allspice for:
- Light cakes and custards
- Some fruit pies
- Seafood dishes
- Pickling spices
Extra Tips
Here are some additional tips for getting the best results when substituting pumpkin pie spice for allspice:
- Add a pinch of nutmeg if the recipe relies on the nutmeg flavor of allspice
- Mix pumpkin pie spice with a little cornstarch or arrowroot powder first to better distribute the flavors
- Try a blend of half pumpkin pie spice and half ground allspice for a closer match
- Adjust other spices like cinnamon and cloves in the recipe as needed
- Use freshly ground spices for more potent flavor
Conclusion
While not an exact replacement, pumpkin pie spice can substitute for allspice in many recipes. Start by using about twice as much pumpkin pie spice as the amount of allspice called for. Taste and adjust the blend as needed. The substitution works best in foods like baked goods, stews, rubs, and some beverages. But avoid using it in place of allspice for delicately seasoned dishes that rely on nutmeg notes. With some seasoning adjustments, pumpkin pie spice can round out spice flavors in the absence of allspice.