What to use instead of mace in a recipe?

It's difficult to give a specific substitute for mace without knowing the context of your recipe. "Mace" can refer to two things:

1. Ground Mace: This is a spice made from the dried outer covering of nutmeg. It has a warm, slightly sweet, and slightly peppery flavor, similar to nutmeg but more delicate.

2. Mace Spray: This is a self-defense spray containing a chemical irritant. It's not a culinary ingredient.

If you're looking for a substitute for ground mace in a recipe, here are some options:

* Nutmeg: The most obvious substitute. Use a slightly smaller amount of nutmeg than mace, as it's stronger.

* Allspice: Has a similar warmth and sweetness to mace.

* Ginger: Offers a warm, peppery flavor similar to mace.

* Cardamom: Provides a warm, sweet, and slightly citrusy flavor.

* Cinnamon: Adds a warm, sweet, and slightly woody flavor.

Choose the substitute that best complements the flavors of your recipe. You may need to adjust the amount you use to achieve the desired taste.

If you're looking for a self-defense option, mace spray is not a good substitute for pepper spray. Pepper spray is more effective and available at most sporting goods stores.

Please clarify which kind of "mace" you're looking to substitute if you need further assistance.