The Ultimate Guide to Baking with Cinnamon: Tips and Techniques

Just the word “cinnamon” is enough to make you think of warm, comforting aromas and the sweet, complex flavors of freshly baked treats cooling on the counter. But did you know that not all cinnamon is created equal? Different types of cinnamon can infuse your baked goods with different flavors and aromas. For example, cassia cinnamon has strong, woodsy notes, while Ceylon cinnamon brings out a more delicate, floral essence. In this guide, we'll explore how to bake with various types of cinnamon, helping you choose the best kind for your recipes and maximize its flavor. The Spice House offers premium versions of three cinnamon varieties: Vietnamese Saigon Cinnamon, Indonesian Korintje Cinnamon, and Sri Lankan "Ceylon" Cinnamon.

Use these tips to discover how to best use each type of cinnamon in your baking, how to enhance its flavors, and what makes for the ideal cinnamon in your baked goods.

Ultimate Guide to Baking with Cinnamon: Top Tips

1. Find Your Flavor with Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

The most crucial tip for baking with cinnamon is to understand that each type of cinnamon has its own unique flavor profile.

• Cassia Cinnamon: This is the most common type of cinnamon found in the United States. It has a bold, spicy flavor that works wonderfully in cinnamon-heavy recipes like snickerdoodles, cinnamon rolls, and apple pies. The intensity of cassia cinnamon makes it a favorite for recipes where you want a strong cinnamon presence.
• Ceylon Cinnamon: If you prefer a milder, more nuanced flavor, Ceylon cinnamon is an excellent choice. Also known as "true cinnamon," or "canela" in Hispanic markets, Ceylon cinnamon has subtle floral and citrus notes. It's perfect for delicate desserts such as custards, rice puddings, and Mexican hot chocolate, where you want the cinnamon to complement other flavors without overpowering them.

2. Pair Your Cinnamon with a Cinnamon Sugar Mixture and Other Spices

Cinnamon pairs beautifully with other warm, cozy spices like nutmeg, cloves, and allspice. Experiment with different combinations to create your own unique spice blend. For example, a mix of cinnamon and nutmeg could add depth to a pumpkin pie, while cinnamon and allspice could create a more robust flavor in a gingerbread recipe.

3. Know When to Add Your Ground Cinnamon

How and when you add cinnamon to your recipe can significantly affect the final taste and appearance. Here are some tips to consider:

• Mixing into Dry Ingredients: Sifting cinnamon into your flour before adding other ingredients ensures an even distribution of flavor throughout your baked goods. In some recipes, melted butter can be added to the dry ingredients to enhance the flavor and texture of the baked goods. This is particularly important in cakes, cookies, and muffins.
• Layering Flavors: For a more visually appealing treat, consider layering cinnamon between tiers of batter in cakes or bread. This creates a beautiful swirl effect and pockets of intense cinnamon flavor.

4. Savory Baking with Cinnamon Rolls

While most people think of cinnamon in sweet dishes, it also has a place in savory cooking. Indonesian cinnamon, with its slightly more bitter and earthy notes, is particularly suited for savory recipes. Middle Eastern and North African cuisines have long used cinnamon to add depth and warmth to savory dishes. Here are some ways to incorporate cinnamon into savory baking:

• Savory Breads: Adding a touch of cinnamon to bread recipes, especially those that include nuts and cheeses, can create a complex flavor profile.
• Meat Pies and Empanadas: A dash of cinnamon in the filling of a hearty meat pie or a spicy empanada can enhance the savory flavors, adding warmth and depth.
• Roasted Vegetables: Cinnamon-drizzled carrots and other root vegetables are a delicious side dish that adds a sweet, spicy twist to your meal.

5. Preparing the Dough

Preparing the dough is a crucial step in making delicious cinnamon rolls. To start, combine warm water, yeast, and a pinch of sugar in a large mixing bowl. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes, or until the yeast is activated and frothy. This step is essential for ensuring your dough rises properly. Next, add flour, salt, and unsalted butter to the bowl. Mix the ingredients together until a shaggy dough forms.

Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-15 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. This process develops the gluten, giving your cinnamon rolls their characteristic chewy texture. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This rise time allows the dough to develop flavor and structure, setting the stage for perfect cinnamon rolls.

5. The Best Cinnamon for Baking? Fresh is Best.

For the best baking results, always use fresh cinnamon. Over time, ground cinnamon loses its essential oils, flavors, and aromatic qualities. Fresh cinnamon is packed with these components, making it more potent and flavorful. This is why The Spice House grinds its cinnamon in small batches to ensure maximum freshness. Our Saigon Cinnamon, for example, has been a favorite for decades due to its robust, spicy flavor profile. For optimal results, store your cinnamon in a cool, dark place and replenish it regularly to keep it fresh.

7. Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with the best recipe and techniques, issues can arise when making cinnamon rolls. Here are some common problems and their solutions:

• Dough not rising: If your dough isn’t rising, check the yeast expiration date and ensure the water used is not too hot or cold. Yeast thrives in a warm, draft-free environment, so make sure the dough is placed in an optimal spot.
• Dough too sticky: If your dough is too sticky, add a small amount of flour and knead until it becomes smooth and elastic. This will help achieve the right consistency without compromising the dough’s structure.
• Rolls not baking evenly: Uneven baking can be a result of incorrect oven temperature or rolls being too close together. Ensure your oven is properly calibrated and space the rolls evenly on the baking sheet.
• Frosting too thin: If your frosting is too thin, add a small amount of powdered sugar and mix until it reaches the desired consistency. This will help thicken the frosting without altering its flavor.
• Cinnamon sugar mixture too clumpy: To avoid clumpy cinnamon sugar mixture, sift it through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any lumps. This ensures an even distribution of cinnamon sugar, giving your rolls a consistent flavor.

By following these tips and troubleshooting common issues, you’ll be well on your way to making delicious homemade cinnamon rolls that will impress family and friends.

Conclusion

Baking with cinnamon is an art that allows you to explore different flavors and aromas, depending on the type and how you use it. Whether you're aiming for a bold, spicy punch or a subtle, floral hint, there's a type of cinnamon that's perfect for your recipe. Remember to experiment with different combinations, pairings, and techniques to create your own signature cinnamon-infused baked goods. And most importantly, always use fresh, high-quality cinnamon for the best flavor and aroma.

FAQs

1. What is the difference between Cassia and Ceylon cinnamon?
   Cassia cinnamon has a stronger, spicier flavor, while Ceylon cinnamon is milder with floral and citrus notes.
2. Can I use cinnamon in savory dishes?
   Yes, cinnamon pairs well with savory ingredients like cumin, coriander, and turmeric, and works great in savory breads, meat pies, and roasted vegetables.
3. How do I keep my cinnamon fresh?
   Store cinnamon in a cool, dark place in an airtight container. Buy in small quantities and replenish often.
4. Can I mix different types of cinnamon in one recipe?
   Absolutely! Mixing different types of cinnamon can create a unique flavor profile and add complexity to your baked goods.
5. What is the best type of cinnamon for baking?
   It depends on the recipe. For a bold flavor, use Vietnamese Saigon or Cassia cinnamon. For a delicate flavor, go with Ceylon cinnamon.