Spice | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Paleo

Ground Cloves

Syzygium aromaticum Allergen-Free
ground cloves

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Myrtaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Southeast Asian
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Clove Tree Buds

The Forktionary Angle

"The Pungent Powerhouse: Master the art of balancing ground cloves' intense flavor to elevate both sweet and savory creations."

Definition

A potent, aromatic spice made from the dried flower buds of the clove tree, characterized by its warm, sweet, and pungent flavor.

Sensory Profile

TasteWarm,Sweet,Pungent
TextureFine,Powdery
AromaStrong,Sweet,Spicy
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Main Aromatic Compound

Eugenol (up to 90%)

Potency Ratio (Whole:Ground)

1 whole clove ≈ 1/4 tsp ground

Shelf Life (Ground)

6-12 months (retains flavor)

Nutrition Facts

Per 1 tsp (2g)
Calories323 kcal
Total Fat13 g
Saturated Fat4 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein6 g
Total Carbohydrate65 g
Dietary Fiber27 g
Total Sugars2 g
Calcium646 mg
Iron8.9 mg
Potassium1020 mg

Chef’s Secret

Due to its intense flavor, use ground cloves sparingly. It's best added early in cooking to allow its flavor to meld without overpowering the dish.

Substitutions

Best Match

Allspice (ground)

1:1

Offers a similar warm, sweet, and slightly peppery flavor profile, a direct substitute.

Nutmeg (ground)

1:1

Provides warmth and sweetness, though less pungent than cloves, good for baking.

Cinnamon (ground)

1:1

Shares warm, sweet notes, but lacks the distinct spice and pungency of cloves.

Apple Pie Spice

1:1

A blend that often includes cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg, suitable for sweet recipes.

Buying Guide

Buy small quantities as ground spices lose potency quickly; store in an airtight container away from light and heat.

Flavor Pairings

Baked goods (pies cookies) Curries Stews Pickling spices Mulled wine Ham glazes Pork

Recipes Using Ground Cloves

Low In Something Desserts 60 Minutes Or Less Holiday Event

Abby's Pumpkin Pie Crustless Custard

Skip the crust, not the flavor! This light and low-fat pumpkin pie custard is a guilt-free indulgence. Perfect for a cozy autumn evening, this recipe is surprisingly easy and can be baked in ramekins, custard cups, or even coffee mugs! Enjoy the creamy texture and warm spices of pumpkin pie without the heavy crust.

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Spicy Course Southwestern United States Cuisine

Adobe Grilled Pork Chops

Savor the explosion of Southwestern flavors with these Adobe Grilled Pork Chops! This recipe lets you control the heat – from mild to fiery – using your favorite amount of cayenne pepper. Tender, juicy pork chops are marinated in a vibrant adobe paste, then grilled to perfection and basted for irresistible flavor. A quick and easy weeknight meal that's guaranteed to impress!

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60 Minutes Or Less Seasonal Main Ingredient Equipment

Alabama Blueberry Bread

Indulge in this irresistible Alabama Blueberry Bread, a moist and flavorful hybrid of quick bread and cake! Adapted from Penzeys' "One" magazine, this easy one-bowl recipe delivers a delicious snack in under an hour. Get ready for bursts of juicy blueberry goodness in every bite – perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat.

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Low Fat Apples Main Ingredient Low Calorie

Almost Unsweetened Applesauce Homemade

Unlock the deliciousness of homemade applesauce with this easy recipe! Transform slightly overripe apples into a healthy and naturally sweet treat. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe uses minimal sugar (or your preferred sweetener like Splenda!), making it a guilt-free indulgence. Prepare batches ahead and freeze for a quick and healthy snack or dessert anytime. Say goodbye to processed applesauce and hello to fresh, flavorful goodness!

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Desserts Main Ingredient Cakes Time To Make

Apple Bourbon Cake

Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of autumn with this irresistible Apple Bourbon Cake! Inspired by New York's apple country and perfected by its apple growers, this recipe is a Thanksgiving must-have. Enjoy the perfect blend of sweet apples, rich bourbon, and warm spices. This recipe is easily adaptable to your preferred sweetness level. Prepare to be amazed!

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Preparation Low Sodium Presentation Low In Something

Apple Butter And Pork Tenderloin

This incredible Apple Butter Glazed Pork Tenderloin recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Juicy, tender pork tenderloin gets a sweet and savory boost from a luscious apple butter glaze. The delightful aroma while cooking will have everyone eager for a taste. Perfect for a special occasion or weeknight dinner, this recipe pairs beautifully with our Sweet Potato and Apple Casserole (recipe to follow!). Prepare to be amazed by the flavor!

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Fall Pies And Tarts Holiday Event Seasonal

Apple Ginger Cranberry Pie

Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of autumn with this irresistible Apple Ginger Cranberry Pie! Sweet tart cranberries, spicy ginger, and juicy apples combine in a flaky, buttery crust for a truly unforgettable dessert. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect finishing touch. Perfect for Thanksgiving, fall gatherings, or a cozy night in!

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Fruit Desserts Time To Make 4 Hours Or Less

Apple Gingerbread Bread Pudding

Indulge in the ultimate comfort dessert! This Apple Gingerbread Bread Pudding is a decadent masterpiece, bursting with warm spices and the sweetness of apples. Perfect for cozy nights in, holidays, or impressing your guests. Get ready for a taste of pure heaven!

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To Go To Go Picnic Kid Friendly

Apple Pie Stuffed Soft Pretzels With Streusel

Get ready for a taste sensation! These Apple Pie Stuffed Soft Pretzels with Streusel are a delightful twist on classic comfort food. Inspired by two beloved recipes (#45567 and #48766), this recipe combines the chewy goodness of soft pretzels with the warm, comforting flavors of apple pie and crunchy streusel topping. While it may seem involved, each step is surprisingly simple and many can be prepped ahead, making it perfect for a weekend baking project. The tart Granny Smith apples provide a fantastic balance, but feel free to experiment with your favorite variety for a sweeter pretzel. Pecans add a delightful crunch (optional!), but the amazing flavor shines through even without them. Prepare to be amazed!

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Vegetarian Tropical Fruit Canning Low In Something

Award Winning Pineapple Preserves

These Award-Winning Pineapple Preserves are unbelievably easy to make with only TWO ingredients! Inspired by a recipe from Down Under, this simple recipe delivers incredibly delicious results. Perfect for adding a burst of tropical flavor to your favorite recipes or enjoying on toast, these preserves are a must-try. No more searching – this recipe guarantees success! Get ready to impress with these vibrant and flavorful preserves. See why Diana's review called this recipe 'award-winning'!

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North American 60 Minutes Or Less Equipment Main Ingredient

Baked Apples In Maple Syrup

Indulge in the comforting sweetness of baked apples, infused with the rich warmth of maple syrup and a hint of spice. This easy recipe is perfect for a cozy fall evening or a delightful holiday treat. The apples become tender and juicy, creating a delicious dessert that's both simple and elegant.

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Ham Ham Dietary High In Something

Baked Ham In A Blanket

Unwrap holiday magic with this irresistible Baked Ham in a Blanket recipe! This recipe, a cherished family tradition, delivers a melt-in-your-mouth ham with a perfectly moist and flavorful crust. Remember the tantalizing aroma that filled your home during special occasions? Now you can recreate that unforgettable experience. The 'crack' of the savory blanket reveals a juicy, tender ham that's perfect for any celebration – from Thanksgiving and Christmas to birthdays and anniversaries. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this show-stopping dish!

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Dietary Easter Low Sodium Time To Make

Baked Ham With Brown Sugar Orange Glaze

This recipe for Baked Ham with Brown Sugar Orange Glaze delivers a deliciously sweet and savory ham, perfect for holiday gatherings or a special weeknight dinner! A simple orange glaze elevates this classic dish to unforgettable levels. Leftover ham can be easily frozen for future use in soups, salads, or sandwiches, lasting up to two months in an airtight container. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-follow recipe!

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Middle Eastern Yams Sweet Potatoes Course Low Cholesterol

Baked Sweet Potatoes With Apricots And Prunes

Indulge in this autumnal masterpiece! Sweet potatoes are roasted to perfection and then tossed in a luscious honey-orange sauce with plump apricots and prunes. The perfect side dish or light dessert – bursting with flavor and naturally sweet!

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Desserts For Large Groups Time To Make Preparation

Barbecue Spice Cookies

These award-winning Barbecue Spice Cookies, a KC Masterpiece Memorable Meals Contest winner at the NC State Fair (from Molly Jarman!), offer a unique twist on a classic. Sweet and smoky, these cookies are incredibly addictive! Get ready to impress your friends and family with this unforgettable recipe.

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Potluck Potluck Main Dish Lunch

Barbecued Pork Sandwiches Crockpot

Fall-apart tender, juicy pulled pork, slow-cooked to perfection in your crockpot! This crowd-pleasing recipe, inspired by Better Homes and Gardens, is perfect for sandwiches on hard rolls or French bread. Make a big batch for easy weeknight meals, lunches, or freezer storage. Learn my secret for super-fast shredding using a KitchenAid stand mixer!

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Occasion Preparation Time To Make 30 Minutes Or Less

Healthy Whole Wheat Pumpkin Pie Pancakes

Indulge in the warm, cozy flavors of fall with these fluffy, healthy whole wheat pumpkin pie pancakes! Packed with fiber, protein, and essential nutrients, they're a delicious and guilt-free breakfast or brunch treat. These pancakes are incredibly versatile – freeze them for a quick and easy meal later, or make them even lighter by substituting a tablespoon of pumpkin with canola oil. Get ready for a taste of autumn in every bite!

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Nuts 60 Minutes Or Less Dietary Canadian

Sugar And Spice Nuts

These addictive Sugar & Spice Holiday Nuts are a festive favorite! Perfect for holiday gatherings, gifting, or enjoying as a sweet and crunchy treat. This easy recipe creates a delicious blend of sweet and savory flavors that will disappear quickly. Get ready for compliments galore!

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