Cloves vs Nutmeg
A side-by-side guide to substituting Nutmeg for Cloves (or vice versa).
Use 0.75 tsp of Nutmeg for every 1 tsp of Cloves.
Side-by-side
Nutmeg
Conversion: Use 75% as much (0.75 tsp per 1 tsp)
Tags: none
Notes: Nutmeg is warmer and less peppery than cloves; use slightly less and taste as you go, as flavor profiles differ significantly.
Read the full guide: Nutmeg
Calculate the exact swap for your recipe in seconds.
Open calculator →When to use Nutmeg instead of Cloves
Nutmeg is warmer and less peppery than cloves; use slightly less and taste as you go, as flavor profiles differ significantly. The conversion is use 75% as much (0.75 tsp per 1 tsp).
Common questions
Yes — Nutmeg is warmer and less peppery than cloves; use slightly less and taste as you go, as flavor profiles differ significantly. Ratio: Use 75% as much (0.75 tsp per 1 tsp).
Use 75% as much (0.75 tsp per 1 tsp). For other quantities, use the SubSwap calculator.
They are similar in most uses, but Nutmeg is warmer and less peppery than cloves; use slightly less and taste as you go, as flavor profiles differ significantly..
Nutmeg is one of the options SubSwap lists for Cloves. The 'best' choice depends on your recipe — see the full list of Cloves substitutes.
Looking for more Cloves substitutes beyond Nutmeg?
See all Cloves swaps →