Allspice vs Mixed Spice: Key Differences

By Sarah Johnson · September 30, 2026

Common Confusion

Despite similar names, allspice and mixed spice are completely different products. Using one in place of the other will dramatically change your dish.

Allspice

A single spice from the dried berries of Pimenta dioica, a tree native to the Caribbean. It tastes like a combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves — hence the name "all-spice." Used in jerk seasoning, mulled drinks, and Middle Eastern stews.

Mixed Spice

A British blend of several ground spices, typically cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, coriander, and sometimes ginger. Used primarily in baking — fruit cakes, puddings, and mince pies.

When to Use Each

Allspice: Jerk chicken, Swedish meatballs, pickling, pimento dram
Mixed Spice: Christmas cake, hot cross buns, apple crumble

Substitutions

Replace allspice with equal parts cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Replace mixed spice with pumpkin pie spice in a pinch — they share similar flavor profiles.