Everything You Need to Know About Cinnamon
Cinnamon is much more than a spice. It’s the silent hero of countless dishes, the secret ingredient in many remedies, and a gateway to delicious nostalgia. Whether you’ve sprinkled it on your morning porridge, baked it into a batch of gooey cinnamon rolls, or brewed it in a cosy tea, chances are cinnamon has already brightened your life in some way. But there’s more to this sweet and warming spice than meets the eye.
If you love cooking, are curious about nutrition, or simply want to learn how to make the most of this kitchen staple, you’re in the right place. This guide dives into cinnamon’s health benefits, culinary uses, and even classic and creative recipes to try at home.
What Exactly Is Cinnamon?
Cinnamon comes from the inner bark of trees belonging to the Cinnamomum family. Once the bark is harvested and dried, it curls into those signature sticks you see in the spice aisle—or it’s ground into powder form for your convenience.
There are two primary types you’ll find at the supermarket:
- Ceylon Cinnamon (often called “true cinnamon”): Milder and slightly sweeter, it’s considered the “fancy” version.
- Cassia Cinnamon (the type you probably have in your cupboard): Stronger and more pungent, this is the more affordable, commonly used type.
Both are delicious and versatile, but they differ slightly in flavour and content. Cassia has higher levels of coumarin, a natural compound that should be consumed in moderation. No need to panic—it’s perfectly safe in normal amounts, and we’ll cover the specifics later.
Your Health
Let’s get this out of the way—cinnamon isn’t a “magic cure” for all your ailments. But it is packed with some pretty impressive benefits when used as part of a balanced diet.
1. Loaded with Antioxidants
Cinnamon contains polyphenols, which are natural antioxidants. These work hard to fight free radicals in your body—those pesky molecules known for causing cell damage and ageing. By adding cinnamon to your meals, you’re giving your body an extra line of defence.
2. Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Feeling a bit stiff or sore? Certain compounds in cinnamon may help to reduce inflammation in the body. While it’s not a replacement for targeted treatments, a sprinkle on your oatmeal or coffee certainly doesn’t hurt.
3. Blood Sugar Control
Studies suggest cinnamon could help improve insulin sensitivity and assist with balancing blood sugar levels. It’s particularly popular among people keeping a close eye on their glucose levels. Keep in mind that the effects won’t be drastic, so it’s more of a support act than a headline performer.
4. Bacterial and Fungal Fighter
Cinnamon contains cinnamaldehyde, an oil that’s been shown to combat certain types of bacteria and fungi. Fancy a natural way to maintain good gut health? Cinnamon might be worth a try.
Quick Tip: To maximise the health benefits, opt for Ceylon cinnamon, as it’s lower in coumarin, making it safer for regular use.
Recipes and Cooking
Cinnamon is a powerhouse in the kitchen. Its unique combination of warmth and sweetness elevates both sweet and savoury dishes.
Here’s a breakdown of where you can sprinkle, stir, or bake your cinnamon stash.
Sweet Dishes
- Cinnamon Rolls (because life without them is unimaginable)
- Apple Pie
- Rice Pudding
- French Toast
- Snickerdoodles
Savoury Surprises
- Curries (hello, Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine!)
- Tagines (North African lamb or chicken stews)
- Chilli Con Carne (yes, cinnamon works in chilli—trust us)
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Drinkable Delights
- Chai Lattes
- Warm Apple Cider
- Hot Chocolate Swirls
- Infused Coconut Milk Smoothies
Spice it up!
Try creating your own spice blends. Combine cinnamon with nutmeg, ginger, allspice, or even a pinch of chilli powder to level up your baking and cooking.
Looking to put theory into practice? Give these a whirl.
1. Cinnamon and Honey Roasted Almonds
The perfect snack or salad topper. Toss almonds with honey, a pinch of cinnamon, and roast until golden. Warning: they’re addictive.
2. Spiced Sweet Potato Soup
Add a teaspoon of cinnamon to your next sweet potato soup for a subtle twist. It pairs beautifully with coconut milk and a dash of nutmeg.
3. Classic Cinnamon French Toast
Mix ground cinnamon into your egg batter before dunking your bread slices. Fry, top with a drizzle of maple syrup, and voilà—a dreamy breakfast.
4. Cinnamon-Infused Oats
Simmer rolled oats with almond milk, a cinnamon stick, and a touch of vanilla. Top with fresh fruit and a sprinkle of nuts.
5. Moroccan Lamb Tagine
A complex blend of spices—including cinnamon—brings depth and richness to tender lamb. Pair with fluffy couscous for a meal to remember.
Fun Fact!
Did you know that ancient Egyptians used cinnamon for embalming? While we’re not suggesting you add that to your list of uses, it does highlight just how valued this spice has been for millennia.
Is There Such a Thing as Too Much Cinnamon?
Everything in moderation, including cinnamon. Cassia cinnamon contains coumarin, which is believed to affect liver function if consumed in large doses over time. For peace of mind, try mixing up your uses with Ceylon cinnamon, which has much lower levels of the substance.
For reference, a teaspoon or so of cinnamon a day is perfectly fine for most people.
Why It’s Time to Add it to your spice rack
Whether you’re marinating chicken thighs or whipping up an apple crumble, cinnamon deserves a central spot in your kitchen. It’s affordable, versatile, and chock-full of health perks to boot.
Want to get creative in the kitchen? Grab a jar of both Ceylon and Cassia varieties and taste the difference for yourself. Spice up your cooking game (literally) and experiment with the endless possibilities this magic bark has to offer!
Looking for more recipe inspiration or cooking know-how? Check out some of our tried-and-tested guides on flavour pairing and spice blending.