When you think of cinnamon, you probably imagine that warm, comforting scent drifting from the kitchen — and there’s nothing quite like using real cinnamon sticks to get that pure, natural flavor. 🌱
Whether you’re baking up a storm or crafting cozy drinks, cinnamon sticks can take your recipes to the next level.
Here’s exactly how to use cinnamon sticks for delicious, healthy creations! 🥰
🍰 How to Use Cinnamon Sticks in Baking
While ground cinnamon is common in baking, whole cinnamon sticks can add an incredible, slow-released depth of flavor to your treats. Here’s how:
1. Infuse Milk or Butter
If your recipe calls for milk or melted butter (like in cinnamon rolls or custards), steep a cinnamon stick in the warm liquid for 10–15 minutes.
It naturally infuses a rich, subtle cinnamon essence without overwhelming the dish. 🌿
Tip: Remove the stick before adding the milk or butter to your dough or batter.
2. Flavor Syrups and Glazes
Making a glaze for your cakes or buns? Simmer a cinnamon stick in your sugar syrup or honey before drizzling.
It gives an earthy, natural warmth that’s perfect for frosting or icing! 🍯
3. Bake with Fruit
Toss a cinnamon stick into a baking dish with apples, pears, or peaches before roasting.
The heat unlocks the cinnamon’s essential oils and perfumes the fruit with delicate spice. 🍎
☕ How to Use Cinnamon Sticks in Drinks
Cinnamon sticks really shine when it comes to cozy beverages! Here’s how to bring their magic to your favorite drinks:
1. Steep for Tea and Infusions
Drop a cinnamon stick into hot water and let it steep for 10–15 minutes.
You can sip it solo for a warming tea or combine with ginger, lemon, and honey for an immune-boosting infusion. 🍋
2. Stir Into Coffee, Cocoa, or Lattes
Use a cinnamon stick as a natural stirrer for your hot drinks.
It releases a subtle spice with every swirl — no need for artificial syrups! ☕
Bonus: It looks beautiful in a cozy mug shot for Instagram. 📸
3. Flavor Mulled Wine or Cider
Simmer a cinnamon stick with wine, cider, or even cranberry juice.
It gently infuses the drink with warmth and spice, perfect for chilly nights and holiday gatherings. 🍷🍂
🌿 Tips for Using Cinnamon Sticks
- Break Them Up: For a stronger flavor faster, snap the stick in half before steeping.
- Reuse Them: A good-quality stick can be used 2–3 times if rinsed and dried properly.
- Buy Ceylon Cinnamon: It’s sweeter, lighter, and considered the “true” cinnamon — ideal for natural, healthy cooking.
🍃 Final Thoughts
Cinnamon sticks aren’t just beautiful — they’re a pure, powerful way to bring natural warmth and comfort to your baking and drinks.
Once you start using them, you’ll never want to go back to artificial flavors! 🌞
👉 Stock up on organic, sustainably sourced cinnamon sticks at Greengold Guide for your next cozy kitchen adventure. 🌿