Wondering what cinnamon tastes like? We’re here to help. In this article, we’re talking about taste, texture and how to incorporate cinnamon into your cooking and baking.
Let’s dive right in…
What Does Cinnamon Taste Like?
Cinnamon is a strong, warming spice that’s hot, pungent and bitter. It isn’t particularly sweet, but its lack of tartness facilitates a sort of sweet sensation. If you’ve had nutmeg, you know for the most part what cinnamon tastes like, though cinnamon is the “sweeter” spice.
You can get cinnamon in stick or powdered form. Cinnamon sticks are spicier with a clean, woody flavor, though freshly ground cinnamon will retain these qualities, too.
Cinnamon Texture
A stick of cinnamon is very hard—you wouldn’t want to chew it. Rather, you let it sit in liquid to release its intense flavors.
Ground cinnamon is fine, dry and fluffy, very much like all-purpose flour. Added to a beverage or recipe, it does not leave any trace of this powdery texture.
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What Is the Best Tasting Cinnamon?
Cinnamon comes from a wide variety of places in the world, including Sri Lanka, India, Indonesia and China. There are two basic types you’ll find in the store: Ceylon and cassia. Some people prefer one over the other, but it can be difficult to tell them apart.
When it comes to deciding whether cinnamon sticks or ground cinnamon will taste better, consider what you’re making. Is it a cup of tea or vegan cocoa? A cinnamon stick will produce a deeper flavor. Is it a cake or bread recipe? You’ll probably prefer ground cinnamon, which will be easier to incorporate and far less spicy.
Read Also: What Does Coconut Butter Taste Like?
What Can I Sprinkle Cinnamon On?
You can sprinkle cinnamon on anything, really, be it sweet, savory or spicy. Oatmeal and homemade granola are often topped with a dash of cinnamon.
We’ve already mentioned cocoa, but hot apple cider is another beverage made tastier with some cinnamon. For savory recipes, throw a little in fruit salsas, vegan chili and coconut milk curries.
Recommended Article: What Does Coconut Flour Taste Like?
Cinnamon Flavoring Tips
Even if you’re already familiar with cinnamon, try taking a culinary trip from dinner straight through dessert with this versatile spice. We found two easy-to-follow videos that’ll help you get started.
If your mind went straight to vegan cinnamon rolls when you thought about cinnamon flavor, here’s a recipe to tempt vegans and non-vegans alike. You’ll need the following ingredients:
- Sugar
- Instant yeast
- All-purpose flour
- Vegan butter
- Nondairy milk
- Salt
- Cinnamon
- Vegan cream cheese
- Vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar
Further Reading: What Does Coconut Sugar Taste Like?
Check out this video for a vegan Sri Lankan curry with butternut squash, coconut milk, curry powder, cinnamon, cumin and other full-bodied flavors.
Wrap Up
Cinnamon is a warming spice that’s hotter in stick form than ground, though don’t worry if you’re not into spicy foods—fiery cinnamon candies are not a reflection of the spice. It’ll add depth to vegan meals like veggie chili and enchiladas, but don’t forget about the vegan cinnamon rolls after dinner. How could you, right?
Related Article: What Does Coconut Taste Like?
Hey, I’m Joey. I’ve been cooking since I was a little kid and love everything about it. You can find my writing about food, kitchen appliances (such as blenders) and much more. Thanks for stopping by!
