Cinnamon for Warmth in Every Bite
Sweet, warming, and timeless, cinnamon is one of the world’s oldest and most beloved spices.
Table of content
How Does Cinnamon Taste?
What’s the difference between Ceylon and Cassia cinnamon?
How is cinnamon used in cooking?
Can cinnamon be used in savoury dishes?
How should I store cinnamon?
Cinnamon
Cinnamomum Verum (Ceylon cinnamon)
Cinnamomum Cassia (Cassia cinnamon)
What is Cinnamon?
Cinnamon is one of the oldest known spices, once so highly valued it was considered more precious than gold.
Derived from the inner bark of evergreen trees, it has been used in ancient Egypt for embalming, in medieval Europe for preserving meats, and in Asia for both culinary and medicinal purposes.
Its key compound, cinnamaldehyde, gives it its characteristic aroma and antimicrobial properties.
In the kitchen, cinnamon is incredibly versatile—used in baking, desserts, curries, stews, and spiced drinks. Ceylon cinnamon is often preferred for delicate recipes, while cassia varieties lend stronger, bolder flavours.
Facts about Cinnamon
Flavour & Taste
Cinnamon has a warm, sweet, and slightly woody flavour with subtle notes of spice and citrus that bring both comfort and brightness to a dish. It adds a gentle heat and aromatic depth that enhances sweet foods like pastries and fruit, while also balancing savoury dishes and stews with its soft, rounded spice.
Where Does Cardamom Come From?
Cinnamon is native to Sri Lanka and southern India. Today, it is cultivated in Sri Lanka, India, Indonesia, Vietnam, and China, with Indonesia being one of the largest producers.
Popular Varieties of Cinnamon
Ceylon cinnamon
Cinnamomum verum
Known as “true” cinnamon, lighter in colour and flavour, with delicate, sweet notes.
Cassia cinnamon
Cinnamomum cassia
Darker, stronger, and more pungent, commonly found in North America.
Saigon cinnamon
Cinnamomum loureiroi
Very aromatic and sweet, high in essential oils.
FAQ
How Does Cinnamon Taste?
Cinnamon is sweet, warm, and woody, with a hint of spiciness.
What’s the difference between Ceylon and Cassia cinnamon?
Ceylon cinnamon (true cinnamon) is lighter and sweeter, while Cassia cinnamon is darker, stronger, and more pungent.
How is cinnamon used in cooking?
Cinnamon is used in desserts, curries, stews, drinks, and baked goods. Sticks add gentle warmth; ground cinnamon gives stronger flavour.
Can cinnamon be used in savoury dishes?
Yes — it’s common in Middle Eastern, Indian, and Mexican savoury recipes, adding warmth and complexity.
How should I store cinnamon?
Keep sticks or powder in a sealed jar away from heat and sunlight. Whole sticks stay fresh longer than ground cinnamon.
Recipe Idea
Cinnamon-Spiced Rice Pudding
Simmer rice with milk, sugar, and a cinnamon stick until creamy.
Finish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon and raisins for a comforting dessert enjoyed worldwide.