Everything you need to know about choosing, using, and storing cinnamon sticks—plus clever kitchen tips and FAQs.
What Are Cinnamon Sticks?
Cinnamon sticks—also called quills—are tightly rolled layers of fragrant tree bark. Unlike pre-ground cinnamon, whole sticks lock in essential oils, so the flavor stays brighter for longer. Two primary types dominate kitchens: Ceylon (often called “true cinnamon,” sweet and delicate) and Cassia (bolder, spicier, with a stronger punch). Ceylon is great for desserts and teas; cassia stands up beautifully to slow-cooked stews and spiced syrups.
Because whole sticks are slow-release flavor, they’re ideal for infusing liquids—think mulled cider, hot chocolate, chai, or custards. When a recipe calls for a warming backbone rather than a blast of spice, sticks are your best friend.
How to Use Cinnamon Sticks
Wondering how to use cinnamon sticks in your everyday cooking? Start with these simple, high-impact methods:
Infuse Drinks With Cinnamon Sticks
- Tea or chai: Simmer one stick per cup of water for 5–10 minutes. Add black tea, milk (or alt milk), and sweetener.
- Mulled cider or wine: Add 2–3 sticks with orange peel, cloves, and a splash of vanilla; simmer gently.
- Hot chocolate: Steep a stick in milk while warming, then whisk in cocoa and sugar for café-level depth.
Flavor Savory Dishes With Cinnamon Sticks
Drop a stick into braises, chili, or tomato-based sauces for subtle sweetness and roundness—then remove before serving. For a cozy Italian-inspired bowl, pair with our slow cooker lasagna soup; a short steep of a cassia stick in the sauce phase adds gentle warmth without tasting “sweet.”
Sweet Bakes & Desserts With Cinnamon Sticks
Infuse cream or milk with a stick for rice pudding, custards, or ice cream bases. Create a quick cinnamon stick syrup (see below) to drizzle over pancakes—or over our peanut butter rice crispy treats for a fun twist.
Make Cinnamon Stick Syrup (5 Minutes)
- Combine 1 cup water + 1 cup sugar in a small pot; add 2 cinnamon sticks.
- Simmer 3–5 minutes; cool 15 minutes to deepen flavor.
- Strain; store chilled 2–3 weeks. Use in coffee, cocktails, and French toast.
Homemade Ground Cinnamon From Sticks
Break sticks into a spice grinder and pulse to a fine powder. Sieve if needed. Fresh-ground cinnamon sticks taste brighter than pre-bottled spices. Grind only what you’ll use in a few weeks for peak aroma.
Buying Guide: Where to Find Cinnamon Sticks
For those asking where can I buy cinnamon sticks or where to find cinnamon sticks: most supermarkets stock them in the spice aisle. You’ll also find bulk options at spice shops and online. If a recipe calls for nuance—custards, poaching fruit, coffee syrups—choose Ceylon. For robust braises and mulling, cassia is economical and powerful. If you need a striking presentation for drinks, seek out long cinnamon sticks for garnish and repeated use.
Storage & Shelf Life for Cinnamon Sticks
Keep sticks in an airtight jar away from heat, light, and humidity. Properly stored, they remain vibrant for about 18–24 months. If a stick smells faint or looks dull, toast it in a dry pan for 30 seconds to wake up the oils—or retire it to a stovetop simmer pot with citrus peels and whole cloves to gently scent your home.
Smart Pairings Using Cinnamon Sticks
- Breakfast: Stir a cinnamon stick into oatmeal while it cooks; finish with honey and toasted nuts.
- Dessert: Cinnamon syrup over peanut butter rice crispy treats is wildly good.
- Dinner: A quick infusion during saucing pairs beautifully with slow cooker lasagna soup.
- Side: For a cozy table spread, add garlicky toast using our frozen garlic bread method.
Health Notes: Ceylon vs. Cassia
Ceylon contains less naturally occurring coumarin than cassia, so if you use cinnamon daily (especially in teas), Ceylon is a gentler choice. For occasional cooking and mulling, cassia’s bold profile works great. As with all spices, moderate use delivers the best flavor balance.
FAQs About Cinnamon Sticks
How do you use cinnamon sticks in drinks?
Simmer a stick in water, milk, or cider for 5–10 minutes to extract flavor, then remove. Sweeten and finish to taste.
Can I reuse cinnamon sticks?
Yes—rinse, dry thoroughly, and reuse for 2–3 gentle infusions (best in teas and simmer pots). Flavor will diminish each time.
What’s the difference between Ceylon and cassia cinnamon sticks?
Ceylon is sweeter and delicate (great for desserts and tea); cassia is bold and spicy (great for braises, mulling, and syrups).
How long do cinnamon sticks last?
Up to two years when stored airtight, cool, and dark. If aroma fades, lightly toast to revive.
Can I grind cinnamon sticks into powder?
Absolutely. Pulse in a spice grinder, sieve if needed, and use within a few weeks for peak freshness.
Final Thoughts: Master Flavor With Cinnamon Sticks
With a small jar of cinnamon sticks, you can transform drinks, round out savory sauces, and bring cozy sweetness to desserts. Keep both Ceylon and cassia on hand to choose the right profile for every dish—and don’t forget to try a homemade syrup for barista-level breakfasts and nightcap-worthy cocktails.