21 5 Unusual Uses of Ceylon Cinnamon Sticks in Recipes You’ll Love

Ceylon cinnamon sticks are great for both sweet and savory dishes. They will make your meals taste so much better. Check some yummy recipes in this guide for inspiration.

Have you ever considered using cinnamon sticks to infuse your savory meat dishes? Or perhaps creating an infused simple syrup for cocktails? These spice sticks have much more than you might think. From enhancing the flavor of roasted vegetables to adding depth to your chili, they offer a lot of amazing culinary possibilities.

Let’s talk about how to use Ceylon cinnamon sticks in 5 ways that will wow you and your guests.

5 Unexpected Uses of True Cinnamon Sticks in Recipes

Infused Quinoa

Enhance your quinoa with the warm, sweet notes of Ceylon cinnamon. Add a stick to the cooking water as you prepare your quinoa. This infusion imparts a subtle, aromatic flavor that pairs wonderfully with both savory and sweet toppings.

Try mixing your spice-infused quinoa with roasted vegetables and a drizzle of olive oil for a hearty lunch. For a sweet twist, top it with fresh berries and a dollop of Greek yogurt for a nutritious breakfast bowl.

The stick can be removed after cooking or left in for presentation. This simple addition transforms an ordinary grain into a flavorful base for countless dishes.

Enhanced Broths And Soups

Introduce Ceylon cinnamon sticks to your broths and soups for an unexpected depth of flavor. Add a stick or two during the simmering process to infuse your liquid base with a subtle warmth.

This technique works particularly well in vegetable broths, adding complexity without overpowering other ingredients. For a comforting winter soup, try adding a quill to butternut squash or carrot soup.

In savory stews, cinnamon can complement the richness of meat dishes. In your next beef stew, it will add a subtle sweetness that balances the savory elements.

Remember to remove the stick before serving, as it’s not meant to be eaten whole.

Cinnamon Stick Hot Toddy

Make your hot toddy taste better with these quills. This warm, comforting drink becomes even more soothing with the addition of true cinnamon.

To make your spiced hot toddy:

1. Pour hot water over a tablespoon of honey in a mug
2. Add a shot of whiskey or brandy
3. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice
4. Stir with a stick

Let the drink steep for a few minutes, allowing the spice to infuse. The stick doubles as a stirrer and garnish, releasing more flavor as you sip.

This aromatic beverage is perfect for chilly evenings or as a soothing nightcap.

Infused Spirits

Create your own flavored spirits using cinnamon sticks from Ceylon. This process, known as infusion, allows you to craft unique cocktail ingredients at home.

To infuse spirits:

1. Place a quill in a bottle of your chosen spirit (vodka, rum, or whiskey work well)
2. Let it sit for 3-5 days, tasting daily to achieve your desired flavor intensity
3. Remove the quill once you’re satisfied with the taste

Use your infused spirit in cocktails or enjoy it on its own over ice. It adds a warm, spicy note to classic drinks like Old Fashioneds or Manhattans.

This technique allows you to experiment with flavor combinations and create signature drinks.

Cinnamon Stick Fruit Compote

Transform ordinary fruit into a luxurious dessert with these sticks. Your compote will make you scream “Wow! I feel good”. This versatile recipe works with a variety of fruits, from apples and pears to berries and stone fruits.

To make your compote:

1. Combine chopped fruit, sugar, and water in a saucepan
2. Add a stick
3. Simmer until the fruit is tender and the liquid has thickened

The stick infuses the fruit with a warm, comforting flavor as it cooks. Remove it before serving or leave it in for presentation.

Serve your infused fruit compote over ice cream, yogurt, or oatmeal for a delicious treat. It also makes a fantastic topping for pancakes or waffles.

Ceylon vs Saigon Cinnamon: Which One Should You Use?

Ceylon and Saigon cinnamon offer distinct flavors and uses in cooking. Ceylon spice has a milder, sweeter taste with subtle citrus notes. You’ll find it works wonderfully in desserts, baked goods, and milk-based recipes.

Saigon spice packs a bolder, spicier punch. Its robust flavor makes it ideal for savory dishes and recipes that call for a stronger cinnamon presence.

When deciding between the two, consider the dish you’re preparing. For delicate flavors, opt for Ceylon. It shines in custards, creams, and chocolate treats. Try it in Mexican hot chocolate or horchata for a unique twist.

Saigon is your go-to for more intense flavor profiles. It can hold its own in complex spice blends and hearty dishes.

Health-conscious cooks may prefer Ceylon spice. It contains lower levels of coumarin, making it safer for regular consumption in larger amounts.

Here’s a quick comparison:

Remember, both types have their place in your spice rack. Experiment with each to discover your personal preference in different recipes.