Ceylon Cinnamon – True Cinnamon ground

Cinnamon is a spice used by many different cultures as a seasoning for savory and sweet foods. Not many people realize that there are different varieties of cinnamon. Ceylon Cinnamon and Cassia Cinnamon are the two we will be discussing.

Cinnamon is found in every grocery store and most convenient stores, that is how common of a spice it is. However, most people do not realize that the ones found in the stores are more often than not, Cassia Cinnamon. It is made from the inner bark of a tree that originated from southern china called Cinnamomum Cassia tree, also called Cinnamomum Aromaticum. This tree is now widely grown in eastern and southern Asia. Cassia Cinnamon is darker in color and has thicker sticks. It is much cheaper and lower quality than Ceylon Cinnamon.
Ceylon Cinnamon, also known as True Cinnamon, originates from a tree native to Sri Lanka and Southern India called Cinnamomum Verum. This cinnamon is a lighter brown color and has softer, lighter sticks, which gives it a higher quality texture that is more desirable. This spice is much less common and more expensive than Cassia Cinnamon.

Flavor and Heat Profile

The taste of Ceylon cinnamon is subtly sweet with citrusy and floral undertones, providing a gentle yet complex flavor that enhances both sweet and savory dishes. When ground, it releases a warm, sweet, and mildly spicy aroma, distinctively softer compared to the more robust and pungent Cassia cinnamon. Its heat profile is notably mild, making it a versatile spice that adds depth without overpowering the other ingredients, thus making it a favorite in baking, desserts, and gourmet cooking.

Cinnamon Sticks and Ground Cinnamon: What’s the Difference?

Ground Ceylon Cinnamon and Cinnamon sticks, while they are one and the same, exhibit notable differences in their usage, flavor intensity, and longevity.

Ground Cinnamon:

• Convenience: Ground cinnamon is pre-powdered, making it convenient and ready to use in cooking and baking.
• Flavor Intensity: It tends to have a more immediate and intense flavor release, as the grinding process increases the surface area exposed to air, which can enhance its aromatic properties.
• Shelf Life: Ground cinnamon has a shorter shelf life compared to cinnamon sticks. Over time, it can lose its potency and aroma more quickly, usually lasting about six months to a year when stored properly.
• Usage: It’s ideal for recipes requiring a quick infusion of cinnamon flavor, such as in baked goods, sauces, and beverages.

Cinnamon Sticks:

• Versatility: Cinnamon sticks, also known as quills, offer versatility in their usage. They can be simmered in liquids to impart a subtle, slow-releasing flavor, or ground fresh to achieve a more potent taste.
• Flavor Development: The flavor from cinnamon sticks develops more gradually, providing a nuanced and layered taste. This makes them perfect for long-cooking dishes like stews, soups, and mulled drinks.
• Shelf Life: Cinnamon sticks have a significantly longer shelf life, maintaining their flavor and aroma for up to two years if stored in a cool, dark place.
• Usage: They are often used for infusing flavors into liquids, such as in teas, broths, and poaching syrups. Additionally, they can be ground as needed to ensure the freshest, most intense flavor.

Health Benefits

Ceylon cinnamon contains anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial effects. These properties mean that cinnamon supports your immune health. Ceylon cinnamon was part of a study that showed enhanced antioxidant enzyme activity. This means it may prevent or treat certain types of cancer. All varieties of cinnamon contain cinnamic acid. It has anti-inflammatory effects. The anti-inflammatory property helps blood flow through the body and puts less strain on the heart. It also reduces inflammation around joints and other parts of the body that might be inflamed.

Try using this spice in hot chocolate or mixed into your coffee before you brew it. Ceylon is also commonly used for spiced pears and peaches, even for making cinnamon ice cream. It is used in both baking and cooking, but we really like mixing it in with whipped cream for a special treat.

Spice Station

Here at Spice Station, you’ll find premium ground cinnamon and cinnamon sticks, plus other varieties such as Cinnamon Saigon and Cinnamon Korintji. But more than that, Spice Station boasts a vast collection of spices and herbs from around the world, carefully curated to ensure freshness and potency. From exotic blends to everyday essentials, we have everything to inspire your kitchen adventures.

Click Add To Cart to order Spice Station’s Ground Ceylon Cinnamon.
We also have Ceylon Cinnamon Sticks.