Cinnamon Sticks vs Ground Cinnamon: Which is Better?

Last updated on February 21st, 2025 at 05:49 am

Introduction

Cinnamon is a beloved spice that adds warmth and flavor to a wide range of dishes, from baked goods to savory stews. While ground cinnamon is the most common form found in pantries, cinnamon sticks are often considered a better option for cooking and brewing. Why is that?

In this blog post, we’ll explore why cinnamon sticks can be superior to ground cinnamon in terms of flavor, shelf life, and versatility. We’ll also provide tips on how to use cinnamon sticks in recipes, as well as how to extract their full flavor potential.

What Are Cinnamon Sticks?

Cinnamon sticks, also known as cinnamon quills, are made from the inner bark of the Cinnamomum tree. These sticks are rolled into cylindrical shapes and can be used in a variety of ways, from infusing liquids like tea and coffee to flavoring soups, curries, and baked goods.

There are two main types of cinnamon:

• Ceylon Cinnamon (True Cinnamon): Known for its mild, sweet flavor, Ceylon cinnamon is considered to be of higher quality and is often used in premium products.
• Cassia Cinnamon: More common and affordable, cassia cinnamon has a stronger, more pungent flavor and is typically found in many supermarket products.

In both forms, cinnamon sticks offer a variety of advantages over ground cinnamon, especially when it comes to preserving flavor and freshness.

Why Cinnamon Sticks Are Better Than Ground Cinnamon

1. Freshness and Flavor

The most significant difference between cinnamon sticks and ground cinnamon is the way they preserve their flavor. Cinnamon sticks have a longer shelf life and retain their essential oils much longer than ground cinnamon. This means that cinnamon sticks provide a more potent and aromatic flavor when compared to their powdered counterparts.

• How it works: Cinnamon sticks contain essential oils within the bark, and these oils are slowly released when the sticks are heated or ground. The longer the cinnamon stick remains whole, the more these oils are preserved, ensuring a stronger and fresher flavor.
• Flavor Impact: Ground cinnamon begins to lose its flavor shortly after it’s ground. The grinding process exposes more surface area to air, causing the essential oils to evaporate more quickly. Cinnamon sticks maintain their flavor for much longer.

Pro Tip: If you want a more intense cinnamon flavor, use cinnamon sticks instead of ground cinnamon, especially for beverages like cinnamon tea or mulled wine.

2. Longer Shelf Life

Cinnamon sticks have a much longer shelf life compared to ground cinnamon. While ground cinnamon starts to lose its potency after about 6 months to a year, cinnamon sticks can last for up to 3-4 years if stored properly. This makes them a more economical choice for businesses or home cooks who use cinnamon in large quantities.

• How it works: The essential oils in cinnamon sticks are protected by the bark, allowing them to stay fresh for a longer time. Ground cinnamon, on the other hand, has a higher exposure to air and light, which accelerates the degradation of its flavor.
• Storage Tip: Store cinnamon sticks in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to extend their shelf life. Ground cinnamon should be used within 6-12 months for the best flavor.

Pro Tip: To ensure the best flavor, use cinnamon sticks within the first 2 years of purchase for optimal potency.

3. Versatility in Cooking and Baking

Cinnamon sticks offer greater versatility compared to ground cinnamon. While ground cinnamon is excellent for baking and recipes where you want an even distribution of flavor, cinnamon sticks shine in recipes where you want to infuse liquids or add a more subtle, layered flavor.

• How it works: When you add cinnamon sticks to soups, curries, or beverages, they infuse the dish with their flavor without overwhelming it. You can remove the stick easily before serving, leaving behind a hint of cinnamon.
• Flavor Impact: Using cinnamon sticks in simmering liquids allows for a slow release of flavor, giving your dish a deeper, more complex taste.

Pro Tip: Use cinnamon sticks when preparing rice pudding, spiced teas, or mulled wine. The sticks will impart a rich flavor that can be adjusted based on how long they are allowed to steep.

4. Aesthetic Appeal

Cinnamon sticks can also serve as a beautiful garnish or decorative element for your dishes and drinks. Their long, curly shape adds a rustic touch to both hot drinks and baked goods. This can enhance the overall presentation of your dish.

• How it works: Simply place a cinnamon stick in your coffee, tea, or cocktails as a garnish for added visual appeal. It’s an easy way to elevate your presentation.
• Flavor Impact: As the cinnamon stick steeps, it subtly infuses the drink or dish with flavor, offering an elegant touch to your beverages or holiday dishes.

How to Use Cinnamon Sticks in Your Recipes

Now that you know the benefits of cinnamon sticks, here are a few ways to incorporate them into your daily cooking, baking, and drinks:

1. Cinnamon Tea

To make a soothing cinnamon tea:

1. Boil 2 cups of water in a pot.
2. Add 1 cinnamon stick and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Strain the cinnamon stick and add honey or lemon to taste.
4. Enjoy a warm, comforting cup of cinnamon tea!

2. Infuse Soups and Curries

Add cinnamon sticks to soups and curries for a richer, more complex flavor. Simply toss in a cinnamon stick during cooking, and remove it before serving.

3. Baking with Cinnamon Sticks

While ground cinnamon is commonly used in baked goods, cinnamon sticks can be used to make your own cinnamon powder for baking. Simply grind a cinnamon stick using a spice grinder, and use the powder in your recipes.

4. Spiced Cocktails

Use cinnamon sticks to make your own spiced syrups for cocktails. Simmer a cinnamon stick with sugar and water, and then strain it to add to your favorite drinks like whiskey sour or mulled wine.

FAQ Section

1. Can I substitute ground cinnamon for cinnamon sticks?
Yes, but the flavor may be more intense with ground cinnamon, and you may lose the ability to easily remove the cinnamon before serving. Use about 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon for each cinnamon stick.

2. How many times can I reuse a cinnamon stick?
You can typically reuse a cinnamon stick 2-3 times before its flavor becomes too mild. Just store it properly between uses.

3. How do I store cinnamon sticks to keep them fresh?
Store cinnamon sticks in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from light. They can last up to 3-4 years if stored properly.

4. Are cinnamon sticks healthier than ground cinnamon?
Both cinnamon sticks and ground cinnamon offer health benefits, but cinnamon sticks retain their essential oils longer, providing a more potent flavor and aroma. Both forms contain antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and antimicrobial properties.

Conclusion

While both cinnamon sticks and ground cinnamon have their uses, cinnamon sticks often come out on top when it comes to flavor, freshness, versatility, and shelf life. Whether you’re brewing tea, adding depth to a curry, or creating a festive cocktail, cinnamon sticks offer a rich, nuanced flavor that ground cinnamon simply can’t match.

For premium cinnamon sticks and expert advice on sourcing, check out these links:

• Vietnamese Cinnamon Supplier
• Cinnamon Stick Exporter Vietnam
• What to Make with Cinnamon Chips: Recipes

Start using cinnamon sticks in your recipes today and enjoy their full range of benefits!