Best Ways To Use Cinnamon for Sweet Or Savoury Dishes

Cinnamon, with its warm, aromatic flavour, is a staple in kitchens worldwide. This versatile spice, derived from the inner bark of trees belonging to the genus Cinnamomum, has been used for centuries to add depth and complexity to both sweet and savoury dishes. 

Its distinctive taste, often described as a blend of sweet, spicy, and slightly floral notes, has made it a beloved ingredient in cuisines from around the globe.

Let's explore some of the best ways to use cinnamon in your cooking.

Sweet Dishes

• Cinnamon Rolls with Vanilla Frosting: 

A classic combination of cinnamon, sugar, and butter rolled up in a soft yeast dough. The cinnamon-sugar filling adds a warm, spiced flavour, while the creamy vanilla frosting provides a sweet and indulgent finish.

• Cinnamon Sugar Toast: 

A simple yet delicious breakfast or snack. Simply toast a slice of bread, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar, and enjoy.

• Cinnamon Cookies: 

Add cinnamon to your favourite cookie recipe for a warm, spiced flavour. Cinnamon pairs well with chocolate, ginger, and nutmeg in cookies.

• Cinnamon Applesauce: 

A healthy and comforting dessert. Simmer apples with cinnamon, sugar, and a splash of lemon juice for a sweet and tangy treat.

• Cinnamon Apple Crumble: 

A comforting dessert made with layers of apples, cinnamon, and a buttery crumble topping. The cinnamon adds warmth and depth to the apple filling, while the crumble provides a satisfying crunch.

• Cinnamon French Toast: 

A decadent breakfast or brunch option. Soak bread in a mixture of eggs, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla, then cook until golden brown. Serve with maple syrup and fruit.

• Cinnamon Ice Cream: 

A refreshing and flavourful dessert. Cinnamon adds a subtle warmth to the creamy ice cream, making it a delicious and unique treat.

Savoury Dishes

• Apple & Carrot Juice With Ginger & Cinnamon: 

A refreshing and healthy beverage. Blend apples, carrots, ginger, and cinnamon for a delicious and nutritious drink.

• Cinnamon-Rubbed Chicken: 

Create a flavourful rub with cinnamon, paprika, and other spices. Rub the chicken with the spice mixture and grill or roast for a tender and juicy main course.

• Cinnamon Pork Tenderloin: 

A delicious and tender main course. Marinate the pork tenderloin in a mixture of cinnamon, garlic, and olive oil before cooking.

• Cinnamon-Spiced Squash Soup: 

A hearty and comforting soup. Roast squash with cinnamon, then blend with broth, onions, and carrots for a creamy and flavorful soup.

• Cinnamon-Infused Rice Pilaf: 

A fragrant and flavourful side dish. Cook rice with cinnamon, onions, and butter for a delicious and easy-to-make accompaniment to any meal.

• Cinnamon Quinoa Salad: 

A healthy and refreshing salad. Combine quinoa, vegetables, and a cinnamon-ginger vinaigrette for a flavorful and nutritious salad.

• Cinnamon-Ginger Barbecue Sauce: 

A sweet and smoky sauce for ribs or chicken. Combine ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, and ginger for a delicious barbecue sauce.

• Cinnamon-Garlic Marinade: 

A flavourful marinade for grilled or roasted meats. Combine olive oil, garlic, cinnamon, and lemon juice for a marinade that will add flavour and tenderness to your meat.

• Cinnamon-Scented Lamb Stew: 

A hearty and comforting stew. Simmer lamb with vegetables, broth, and cinnamon for a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Tips for Using Cinnamon

• Use Sparingly: Cinnamon can be overpowering, so start with a small amount.
• Combine With Other Spices: Cinnamon pairs well with cardamom, cloves, nutmeg, and ginger.
• Experiment: Don't be afraid to try new combinations and flavour profiles.
• Add Cinnamon Spice Drops To Your Baking: This will give your baked goods a subtle cinnamon flavour.
• Use Cinnamon As A Natural Air Freshner: Place cinnamon sticks in a bowl or sachet to freshen the air in your home.

Bottom Line

By exploring these versatile uses of cinnamon, you can elevate your cooking and create delicious and memorable dishes. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, cinnamon is a must-have spice in your kitchen.