Cinnamon sticks are a versatile spice with a rich history, both in cooking and wellness practices. These fragrant, rolled bark sticks come from the Cinnamomum tree and can be found in two main types: Ceylon and cassia. Known for their warm, spicy flavor and aromatic properties, cinnamon sticks have become a staple in many households.
Whether you’re looking to use them in cooking, for home remedies, or even for DIY projects, cinnamon sticks provide multiple benefits. In this article, we’ll cover the many ways you can incorporate them into your daily routine, from delicious meals to health-boosting practices.
Cinnamon’s History and Origins
Before we get into how to use cinnamon sticks, it’s worth understanding their origins and the value they’ve held throughout history. Cinnamon was once so highly prized that it was considered a gift fit for royalty and gods. Ancient Egyptians used it in the embalming process, while Roman emperors burned cinnamon during funerals to mask the smell of decay.
The spice trade routes of the ancient world revolved around spices like cinnamon, and traders would travel great distances to secure it. At one point, cinnamon was more valuable than gold. Today, it’s readily available but no less cherished.
The two most common types of cinnamon sticks are Ceylon cinnamon (often called “true cinnamon”) and cassia cinnamon. While both offer a warm, aromatic flavor, they differ in taste, texture, and health benefits. Ceylon cinnamon is more delicate and sweet, while cassia has a stronger, more robust flavor. Knowing which type you have can help you better use cinnamon sticks in different ways.
Adding Cinnamon to Beverages
One of the simplest ways to enjoy cinnamon sticks is by adding them to drinks. Whether you’re drinking something hot or cold, cinnamon sticks can transform a basic beverage into something special.
1. In Tea and Coffee
Cinnamon sticks are a popular addition to tea. Simply drop a stick into your mug while the tea steeps. As the stick soaks, it releases its natural oils, infusing the tea with a subtle, sweet spice. It pairs wonderfully with herbal teas like chai, ginger, or even peppermint.
Coffee lovers can also benefit from cinnamon’s flavor. Add a stick to your coffee grounds before brewing, or stir your coffee with a cinnamon stick for an added layer of complexity. Not only does this enhance the flavor, but cinnamon can also help regulate blood sugar levels, making your morning cup of joe a bit healthier.
2. In Smoothies
Cinnamon adds a surprising depth to smoothies. After blending your favorite fruits and vegetables, drop in a cinnamon stick while it chills. As the smoothie sits, the flavors from the cinnamon infuse into the drink. This works particularly well with fruit smoothies that include apples, bananas, or berries.
For an extra kick, blend in a small amount of ground cinnamon for immediate flavor. The cinnamon stick will complement these flavors without overpowering the smoothie.
3. In Mulled Drinks
Mulled wine and cider are popular beverages during colder months, and cinnamon sticks are a key ingredient. When heated with spices like cloves, nutmeg, and star anise, cinnamon transforms these drinks into a warming, festive treat. The stick can be left in the pot while the drink simmers, allowing the flavors to deepen.
You can also use cinnamon sticks in spiced hot chocolate. Just drop a stick into your mug and let it steep while you enjoy the drink. The heat from the chocolate helps release the cinnamon’s oils, blending the flavors seamlessly.
Infusing Flavor into Savory Dishes
Cinnamon is often associated with sweet dishes, but it works just as well in savory recipes. It’s a common ingredient in Middle Eastern, Indian, and North African cuisines. Adding a cinnamon stick to stews, soups, and sauces can enhance the dish’s richness.
1. In Braises and Stews
Cinnamon adds warmth to braised meats like lamb, beef, or chicken. In Moroccan tagines, cinnamon is a key spice that pairs beautifully with the other complex flavors in the dish. When you add cinnamon sticks to your slow cooker or pot, they slowly release their flavor, which deepens as the dish simmers.
This method works particularly well with meats that have a rich flavor profile, such as lamb or pork. Simply drop a cinnamon stick into the dish as it cooks, and remove it before serving. The cinnamon imparts a subtle sweetness that balances the savory elements of the stew or braise.
2. In Curries and Soups
In Indian cuisine, cinnamon sticks are often added to curries. A small stick can be added to the oil or ghee when frying onions and garlic, infusing the dish with its spicy-sweet flavor. It works well in tomato-based sauces and creamy curries alike.
In soups, particularly those with root vegetables or lentils, cinnamon sticks add warmth. Add a stick when sautéing your vegetables, and let it simmer with the stock for a heartier, richer taste. You’ll find that cinnamon complements soups that use squash, carrots, and other earthy ingredients.
Cinnamon in Baking and Sweets
Cinnamon is a key ingredient in many sweet baked goods. The flavor of freshly ground cinnamon is more potent than pre-ground varieties, so using cinnamon sticks gives your baked goods a more intense, fragrant flavor.
1. Grinding Cinnamon Sticks for Baking
To get the most flavor from cinnamon in baking, grind your own cinnamon powder from cinnamon sticks. Freshly ground cinnamon offers a brighter, more intense flavor than pre-ground cinnamon from the store. You can easily grind cinnamon sticks using a spice grinder, coffee grinder, or mortar and pestle.
This fresh cinnamon powder can then be used in cookies, cakes, muffins, or bread recipes. The freshness of the cinnamon will bring out the sweetness in your baked goods, making your desserts even more flavorful.
2. Cinnamon Stick Syrups
Another delicious way to use cinnamon sticks in sweets is by making cinnamon syrup. Boil a few cinnamon sticks with sugar and water to create a syrup that can be drizzled over pancakes, waffles, or even ice cream. This syrup can also be used in cocktails or coffee for a touch of sweetness.
For an extra flavor boost, combine cinnamon sticks with vanilla or cloves while making the syrup. This method allows you to create a versatile ingredient that adds a hint of cinnamon to anything you want to sweeten.
3. Infusing Milk or Cream
Cinnamon sticks can be used to infuse milk or cream for desserts like custards, puddings, and ice cream. Simply warm the milk with a cinnamon stick in it, then let it steep for 30 minutes. The warm, spicy flavor of cinnamon will infuse into the milk, giving your desserts a subtle kick without overpowering them.
You can use this method when making hot chocolate as well, allowing the cinnamon to add depth to the drink before you mix in other ingredients. This process is especially popular in making traditional Mexican hot chocolate, which combines cinnamon, vanilla, and chocolate for a rich, spicy flavor.
Home Fragrance and Potpourri
Cinnamon sticks aren’t limited to the kitchen. They are perfect for creating natural home fragrances, potpourri, and air fresheners.
1. Boiling Cinnamon Sticks for a Natural Air Freshener
One of the easiest ways to make your home smell wonderful is by boiling cinnamon sticks. Fill a pot with water, drop in a few sticks, and let it simmer on low heat. The steam will fill your home with a warm, spicy scent.
To add complexity, you can combine cinnamon sticks with other ingredients like orange peels, cloves, or star anise. The natural fragrance lingers for hours, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
2. DIY Potpourri
Cinnamon sticks work beautifully in homemade potpourri. Combine them with dried flowers, herbs, and other spices like star anise or cloves. Add dried citrus peels for a zesty twist. This potpourri can be placed in a bowl or sachet to freshen up any room naturally.
Homemade potpourri makes a great gift, especially when packaged in decorative jars or bags. It not only smells great but also serves as a decorative piece.
3. Cinnamon Stick Candles
Cinnamon sticks add a rustic touch to homemade candles. You can wrap them around the outside of a candle using twine or glue. When the candle burns, the heat will gently warm the cinnamon, releasing its aroma into the room.
This DIY project is easy and makes for a lovely decorative piece. Whether you’re gifting the candles or using them in your home, they bring warmth and style to any space.
Health Benefits of Cinnamon Sticks
While cinnamon sticks are great for cooking and crafting, they also offer significant health benefits. According to research, cinnamon is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. Consuming cinnamon can help reduce the risk of heart disease, lower blood sugar levels, and even combat infections.
Adding cinnamon sticks to your diet is an easy way to tap into these benefits. A cinnamon stick in your tea or coffee each day may help regulate blood sugar and reduce inflammation. You can read more about the health benefits in this Healthline article.
Cinnamon for Skin Care and Beauty
Cinnamon sticks can also be used in DIY beauty treatments. It contains antimicrobial properties that can help cleanse the skin and promote a clear complexion.
1. Cinnamon Stick Facial Steams
Facial steams are an excellent way to cleanse your pores and refresh your skin. Boil a pot of water, add a cinnamon stick, and let the steam rise. Position your face over the steam, covering your head with a towel to trap the moisture. The cinnamon-infused steam will help open your pores, allowing for a deep clean.
You can enhance this treatment by adding essential oils like tea tree or lavender, known for their skin-soothing properties.
2. Cinnamon Stick Scrubs
Create a DIY body scrub by grinding cinnamon sticks and combining the powder with sugar and coconut oil. This creates an exfoliating scrub that helps remove dead skin cells and smooth the skin. Cinnamon’s natural antimicrobial properties also help keep skin clear and free from breakouts.
For added benefits, mix cinnamon with honey, which has natural antibacterial properties, to create a face mask. This mask can help reduce acne and leave the skin glowing.
Cinnamon in Traditional Medicine
Cinnamon has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments. It is often included in natural remedies for colds, digestive issues, and inflammation. Ayurvedic medicine uses cinnamon as a warming spice, believed to improve circulation and digestion.
Adding cinnamon to your diet may offer similar benefits. However, it’s important to note the difference between cassia and Ceylon cinnamon. Cassia cinnamon, the more common variety, contains higher levels of coumarin, a compound that can be harmful in large amounts. Ceylon cinnamon, on the other hand, has lower levels of coumarin and is considered safer for regular use. You can read more about the differences in this Nourished article.
Cinnamon in Pest Control
Beyond its culinary and health benefits, cinnamon sticks can also serve as a natural pest repellent. The strong smell of cinnamon deters insects like ants, mosquitoes, and moths.
1. Cinnamon for Ant Control
To keep ants at bay, place cinnamon sticks near windows, doors, or any areas where ants enter your home. You can also grind the cinnamon sticks into powder and sprinkle it around the perimeter of your house. Ants are highly sensitive to the scent of cinnamon and will avoid areas where it’s present.
2. Repelling Mosquitoes
Cinnamon sticks can be used in outdoor spaces to help repel mosquitoes. Set up a few sticks around your porch or patio to discourage these pests from hanging around. For extra protection, you can boil the sticks and use the water as a spray to mist around seating areas.
Conclusion
Cinnamon sticks are far more versatile than most people realize. They can be used in a wide range of applications, from cooking and baking to crafting and pest control. Whether you’re making a pot of soup, whipping up a batch of cookies, or simply trying to freshen your home, cinnamon sticks offer a natural and aromatic solution. Incorporate these flavorful and beneficial sticks into your life and discover just how much they can do for you.