Cardamom is a spice that is used in many different cuisines, but it is especially popular in Indian and Middle Eastern dishes.
It has a unique flavor that is both sweet and spicy, and it is often used in savory dishes as well as sweet baked goods.
If you don’t have cardamom on hand, or if you’re searching for a cheaper option, there’re several substitutes that will work just as well.
Some of the best alternatives that you can try as a substitute for cardamom in baking.
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Best substitutes for cardamom in baking
1. Allspice – common baking substitute for cardamom
Allspice is a common baking spice that can be used as a substitute for cardamom.
It has a similar flavor profile, although it is not as sweet as cardamom. Allspice is also fairly strong, so you won’t need to use as much of it when substituting it for cardamom.
Additionally, allspice is a spice that tastes like a combination of cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
It’s a common ingredient in pumpkin pie and other fall desserts. If you’re out of cardamom but have allspice on hand, you can use it as a 1:1 substitute.
2. Cinnamon – the closest substitute to cardamom
Cinnamon is probably the closest substitute to cardamom in terms of flavor. It is also a spice that is commonly used in baking, so you likely already have it on hand.
Cinnamon is sweeter than cardamom, so you may want to use a little less of it if you’re substituting it in a savory dish.
So, if you don’t have any cardamom, try using cinnamon as a 1:1 substitute.
Just be aware that your baked goods will have a slightly different flavor with cinnamon than they would with cardamom.
3. Try ginger to replace cardamom
Ginger is another spice with a warm, sweet flavor. It’s often used in gingerbread and other holiday desserts.
If you don’t have cardamom, try using ginger as a 1:1 substitute.
As with cinnamon, your baked goods will have a slightly different flavor with ginger than they would with cardamom.
4. Nutmeg – a decent alternative for cardamom
Nutmeg is another spice that’s often used in baking. It has a warm, sweet flavor similar to cinnamon and ginger.
If you don’t have cardamom, try using nutmeg as a 1:1 substitute. Again, your baked goods will have a slightly different flavor but should still be delicious!
5. Cloves – an ideal replacement for cardamom
Cloves have a similar flavor to cardamom, although they are not as sweet. They are also a common baking spice, so they are probably already in your pantry.
Cloves are very strong, so you will only need to use a small amount if you’re substituting them for cardamom.
6. Apple Pie Spice
Apple pie spice is a blend of warm spices, typically including cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, ginger, and sometimes even cardamom or mace.
The exact ratios of each spice can vary depending on the recipe, but it usually consists of equal parts of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice with half as much ground ginger.
This combination of flavors gives apple pies their distinctive fragrant aroma and taste that reminds us so much of the holidays.
Other additions, such as cloves or cardamom, may be added to give an extra depth of flavor to the mix.
Apple pie spice is also known by many names, including pumpkin pie spice or Christmas Pie Spice which is basically just a variation in the ratios of spices used.
To substitute Apple Pie Spice for cardamom in baking, combine the following spices: 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice, 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg, and a pinch of ground cloves.
This combination will yield approximately one teaspoon of Apple Pie Spice and can be used as a replacement for one teaspoon of cardamom.
Additionally, you can adjust the ratio of each spice to achieve your desired flavor. If a recipe calls for more than one teaspoon of cardamom, simply double or triple the amount of each spice called for in this mixture.
When substituting Apple Pie Spice for cardamom in baking recipes such as cakes or muffins, use less sugar to account for the sweetness present in the spice blend. Enjoy!
Note: It is important to note that substituting Apple Pie Spice for cardamom in baking will result in a different flavor than using cardamom alone.
The ratio of spices used in this substitution may require to be adjusted based on your desired flavor and sweetness level.
Additionally, some recipes may require more time or additional ingredients if the recipe calls for whole cardamom pods as opposed to ground cardamom.
Using Apple Pie Spice as a substitution for cardamom is an easy, convenient way to add warmth and depth of flavor to all your baked goods.
With just a few easy adjustments, you can enjoy delicious desserts with the perfect balance of spices! Bon Appetit!
FAQs on substitute for cardamom in baking
Q1. 3 cardamom pods equal how much ground?
Ground cardamom is most commonly sold in pre-ground form and is usually more convenient than using whole pods.
Generally, 3 cardamom pods are equal to 1 teaspoon of ground cardamom.
However, depending on the size of the pods and the strength of the spice, this amount may vary slightly.
When measuring out large amounts of spices, it is important to weigh them instead of relying on volume measurements for accuracy.
Q2. What does cardamom taste like in coffee?
When it comes to coffee, there are endless flavor combinations to explore. One unique and delicious option is cardamom.
This spice is usually used in Indian cuisine, and it imparts a warm, aromatic flavor to coffee. Cardamom has a slightly sweet taste with notes of citrus, ginger, and pepper.
It can be used to add depth to a plain cup of coffee, or it can be paired with other spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. If you’re searching for a new way to enjoy your morning cup of joe, give cardamom a try. You might just discover that it’s your new favorite flavor addition.