Cinnamon is a popular spice that comes from the bark of cinnamon trees. It has been used for thousands of years and was highly prized in ancient times. Cinnamon has a sweet, warm flavor that can enhance both sweet and savory dishes. It is available ground into a powder which makes it easy to add to recipes.
There are two main types of cinnamon - Ceylon and Cassia. Ceylon cinnamon is considered to be superior in quality and taste. It has a more delicate and complex flavor. Cassia cinnamon is more common and has a stronger, spicier flavor.
When shopping for cinnamon powder, you want to choose a brand that is high quality. The cinnamon should smell and taste fresh, not musty. It is also important that the powder is not gritty and has a fine consistency.
This buying guide will discuss what to look for when buying cinnamon powder and provide tips on how to choose the best brand. We'll cover factors like Ceylon versus Cassia, organic and pure cinnamon, and how to spot lower-quality cinnamon.
Simply Organic Ground Ceylon Cinnamon
Simply Organic Ground Ceylon Cinnamon is made from pure, organic, ground Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum) sourced from a long standing co-op partner in Sri Lanka. It has a delicate, exotic scent and mild sweet flavor that makes it ideal for finer desserts, hot beverages, French toast, hot cocoa, and more. This Ceylon cinnamon powder has a complex yet nuanced flavor profile compared to the more common cassia cinnamon. Its aroma has hints of floral and citrus notes that complement the warm, spicy cinnamon flavor.
Simply Organic cinnamon is certified organic, non-GMO, and free of ETO. It is freshly ground in small batches and packaged in a clear glass jar so you can see the quality. The company has close relationships with suppliers to ensure environmentally friendly and high quality cinnamon production. Simply Organic aims to provide pure, potent flavor grown sustainably at the source. The cinnamon won "BEST" Ceylon Cinnamon by Epicurious in 2018 and customers love it for baking, making tea, and adding to coffee.
Key Features:
- Organic, ground Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum) sourced from Sri Lanka
- Delicate, exotic scent and mild, sweet flavor
- Complex, nuanced flavor profile compared to cassia cinnamon
- Packaged in clear glass jar to see the quality
What We Like:
- Ideal for baking, hot beverages, French toast, and more
- Freshly ground in small batches for exceptional quality
- Sourced sustainably from a long-standing co-op partner
- Certified organic, non-GMO, and free of ETO
McCormick Ground Cinnamon
McCormick Ground Cinnamon delivers the sweet, warm flavor and aroma that makes it one of the world's most popular spices. Sourced from the inner bark of cinnamon trees, it brings deep flavor to both sweet and savory dishes. McCormick ages their premium ground cinnamon up to 15 years for exceptionally rich flavor. It's the perfect addition to classics like cinnamon rolls, French toast, and hot coffee. The cinnamon also enhances savory foods like sweet potatoes, couscous, and pork.
McCormick is committed to quality and aims to source flavorful, balanced spices. The company's ground cinnamon has no added fillers - just pure, high quality cinnamon. It blends smoothly into batters and mixes without clumping. Add McCormick's cinnamon to spice rubs, curries, stews, and more for warming sweetness the whole family will love. The aged cinnamon offers a consistently rich, bold flavor perfect for everyday baking and cooking.
Key Features:
- Sweet, warm cinnamon flavor and aroma
- Made from the inner bark of cinnamon trees
- Aged up to 15 years for rich flavor
- No added fillers - just pure cinnamon
What We Like:
- Enhances sweet and savory dishes
- Blends smoothly into batters without clumping
- Great for cinnamon rolls, French toast, coffee
- Adds warmth to rubs, curries, stews, and more
Spice Classics Ground Cinnamon
Spice Classics Ground Cinnamon delivers the classic sweet, warm cinnamon flavor that's a must-have for baking. It brings deep, nuanced sweetness to pies, cakes, custards, and other desserts. The ground cinnamon is also ideal for spicing up hot beverages like coffee, tea, and cider. Aged for exceptional flavor, it provides budget-friendly cinnamon taste for large batches of food. Spice Classics aims for dependable flavors your guests will recognize.
This cinnamon powder is made from the inner bark of cinnamon trees native to Sri Lanka and China. It's one of the world's oldest and most beloved spices, used since ancient times. Add it to meat rubs and savory dishes for warming sweetness and comforting aromas. Spice Classics cinnamon offers great value, so you can create custom spice blends on a budget. Use it to add classic cinnamon flavor to everything from breakfast dishes to baked goods and beverages.
Key Features:
- Sweet, warm cinnamon flavor
- Made from the inner bark of cinnamon trees
- Aged for rich flavor
- Provides cinnamon taste on a budget
What We Like:
- Perfect for pies, custards, coffee, and more
- Warms up meats and savory dishes
- Great value for large batches of food
- Use it to create custom spice blends
Anthony's Organic Ceylon Cinnamon Powder
Anthony's Organic Ceylon Cinnamon Powder is made from 100% organic Ceylon cinnamon freshly ground in India. Ceylon cinnamon has a more complex yet delicate flavor compared to the more common cassia cinnamon. It has a mildly sweet and fruity taste with exotic floral notes. Anthony's cinnamon powder has a softer, nuanced flavor perfect for desserts, chocolate, breads, and more. It's certified organic, non-GMO, gluten-free, and vegan.
The company believes in providing quality organic products at an affordable price. They aim to encourage healthy, nutritious lifestyles. Anthony's establishes close relationships with suppliers to ensure high standards. The Ceylon cinnamon is sourced from a long-standing partner cooperative in Sri Lanka. Anthony's organic cinnamon offers an exceptional culinary experience with its exotic aroma and authentic Ceylon flavor.
Key Features:
- 100% organic Ceylon cinnamon
- Freshly ground in India
- Delicate, complex flavor
- Certified organic, non-GMO, gluten-free
What We Like:
- Ideal for desserts, breads, coffee, and more
- Has an exotic, mild, fruity taste
- Sourced from a partner co-op in Sri Lanka
- Provides authentic Ceylon cinnamon flavor
Naturevibe Botanicals Organic Ceylon Cinnamon Powder
Naturevibe Botanicals Organic Ceylon Cinnamon Powder provides the true flavor of Ceylon cinnamon freshly ground from organic sources. It has a refined, elegant taste compared to cassia cinnamon, with mild sweetness and exotic floral notes. The company believes in supplying quality, organic products to encourage healthy lifestyles worldwide. They aim to manufacture items they would use themselves without hesitation.
Naturevibe's cinnamon powder is sourced from a cooperative in Sri Lanka, where true Ceylon cinnamon originates. It's grown and produced without GMOs or toxic pesticides. Ceylon cinnamon balances blood sugar, reduces inflammation, and provides antioxidants. Use Naturevibe's organic cinnamon to add authentic, aromatic flavor to baked goods, warm beverages, curries, and other dishes.
Key Features:
- 100% organic Ceylon cinnamon
- Freshly ground
- Grown in Sri Lanka
- Non-GMO and pesticide-free
What We Like:
- Provides true, refined Ceylon taste
- Has mild sweetness and exotic notes
- Sourced from a co-op in Sri Lanka
- Adds flavor and nutrition to foods
Amazon Brand - Happy Belly Cinnamon, Ground
This cinnamon powder is made from high-quality cinnamon bark and offers a perfect balance of sweetness, warmth, and spiciness. It has an aromatic, sweet, deep, warm, delicate flavor. The finely ground texture blends effortlessly into dishes. It can be used in sweet baked goods like cookies or cakes, as well as in savory dishes with chicken, lamb, pork, sweet potatoes or soups.
Key Features:
- Comes in a 15 oz package
- Kosher
- Made from cinnamon bark
What We Like:
- Delicious cinnamon flavor
- Smooth, fine texture
- Versatile for both sweet and savory dishes
FGO Organic Ceylon Cinnamon Powder
FGO Organic Ceylon Cinnamon Powder is imported 100% raw from Sri Lanka. It has a milder flavor than traditional cinnamon and is known for its delicate, sweet flavor used by gourmet chefs. FGO sells USDA certified organic, 100% raw Ceylon Cinnamon powder from Sri Lanka in 8 oz and 16 oz resealable bags.
Key Features:
- Organic and non-GMO certified
- Packed in resealable natural kraft bags
- Imported from Sri Lanka
What We Like:
- Delicate, mildly sweet flavor
- Reputable organic certification
- Convenient resealable packaging
Viva Doria Ground Cinnamon
Viva Doria Ground Cinnamon is made from high-quality cassia cinnamon bark. It offers a remarkable aroma and rich flavor to enhance culinary creations with its perfect balance of sweetness, warmth and spiciness. The fine ground texture effortlessly integrates into diverse dishes from baked goods to curries.
Key Features:
- 12 oz package
- Finely ground texture
- Made from cassia cinnamon bark
What We Like:
- Warm, sweet and spicy flavor
- Smooth, fine grind
- Works well in sweet and savory recipes
Micro Ingredients Organic Ceylon Cinnamon Powder
This organic Ceylon cinnamon powder from Micro Ingredients is imported 100% raw from Sri Lanka. It has a more delicate flavor compared to other varieties, with sweetness and subtle spice notes. The powder is certified USDA organic and non-GMO. It comes in a large 2 lb package.
Key Features:
- USDA organic certified
- 2 lb bulk package
- From Sri Lanka
What We Like:
- Subtly sweet, mild flavor
- Third party tested for purity
- Good value bulk size
Frontier Co-op Organic Korintje Cinnamon
Frontier Co-op Organic Korintje Cinnamon is smoother and less nippy than other varieties. It's known for its full, balanced spiciness combined with warmth and sweetness. The organic cinnamon can be used to enrich savory dishes, baked goods, oatmeal, coffee and more. It comes in a 1 lb bulk bag.
Key Features:
- USDA organic certified
- Non-irradiated
- Full, balanced cinnamon flavor
What We Like:
- Smooth, mildly spicy flavor
- Trusted organic certification
- Generous 1 lb quantity
Buying Guide for Cinnamon Powder
When you are shopping for cinnamon powder, here are the key factors to consider:
Ceylon Cinnamon vs. Cassia Cinnamon
The first decision to make is whether you want Ceylon or Cassia cinnamon. As mentioned, Ceylon cinnamon has a more refined, complex flavor that is subtle and sweet. Cassia cinnamon is bolder and spicier.
Ceylon cinnamon is considered to be the best quality, but it is also more expensive. If you are making sweet baked goods or desserts, Ceylon is a great choice to enhance the flavors without overpowering them. For savory dishes that can handle a spicier kick, Cassia cinnamon would work well.
Organic and Pure Cinnamon
Look for cinnamon powder that is certified organic and 100% pure cinnamon. Organic means it was grown without synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. Pure cinnamon powder contains only cinnamon with no fillers like rice flour added.
Companies sometimes cut cinnamon powder with cheaper fillers which reduces the quality. Pure cinnamon gives you all the health benefits and flavor without extra additives.
Freshness and Expiration
Check the expiration date and look for cinnamon powder that is fresh. It should have an aroma that smells bright and intensely cinnamon-y. Avoid powder that smells dull or musty.
Proper storage also maintains freshness. Store cinnamon powder in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Keep away from light, heat, and moisture which can cause it to deteriorate faster.
Fineness of the Grind
Higher quality cinnamon powder will have a very fine, smooth texture. Lower quality cinnamon is more likely to be coarse or gritty.
Cinnamon powder with a finer grind will be easier to fully incorporate into recipes. The fine texture also allows more surface area for the flavor to come through.
Country of Origin
The best cinnamon comes from Sri Lanka which was formerly known as Ceylon. High quality Cassia cinnamon is usually grown in Indonesia, China, or Vietnam. Check where the cinnamon is sourced from for the purest flavors.
Cost and Value
Be wary of cinnamon powder that seems unusually cheap. High quality cinnamon does cost more than lower grades. However, the flavor and aroma of fresh, pure cinnamon is worth paying a little extra for.
Consider buying small quantities more often so it stays fresh. Buying in bulk can save money but may lead to waste if the cinnamon goes bad before you use it all.
Additional Tips for Spotting Higher Quality Cinnamon
- The color should be tan to light reddish brown. Dark brown powder may have additives.
- It should be very soluble in water, without many particles left floating.
- Quality cinnamon is flammable. Light a small pinch - it should catch fire easily and smell good as it burns.
- Look for certifications like USDA Organic, Fair Trade, or true Ceylon cinnamon.
- Check reviews online to help identify trusted cinnamon brands and suppliers.
FAQ
Is it better to buy whole cinnamon sticks vs ground powder?
Whole cinnamon sticks do retain their freshness longer. However, powder is more convenient for cooking and provides the same great taste. Just take care to store powder properly and buy smaller quantities more frequently for maximum freshness.
How should I store cinnamon powder at home?
Keep cinnamon powder in an airtight glass jar or container, away from light, heat and moisture. Store in a cool, dark cabinet or pantry. Keeping air and light exposure to a minimum will help retain its volatile oils and compounds that provide flavor.
Does quality cinnamon powder cost a lot more?
There is a range of prices for cinnamon powder based on factors like type, quality, and origin. Pure Ceylon cinnamon tends to cost more than Cassia, and organic is pricier than conventionally grown. However, you can get high quality cinnamon for a reasonable price if you buy wisely. Paying a couple extra dollars for better flavor and purity is worth it.
Is it okay to buy ground cinnamon in bulk?
It can be smart to buy small batch cinnamon powder that is freshly ground instead of buying a huge bulk quantity. Cinnamon loses potency and aroma over time. Smaller amounts ensure you can use it up faster, before it loses freshness. If you bake a lot and will use cinnamon quickly, a bulk purchase may save money.
Should I refrigerate or freeze cinnamon powder?
Usually there is no need to refrigerate or freeze cinnamon powder. Properly stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark cabinet or pantry, it will stay fresh for up to one year. Freezing may cause moisture to develop in the cinnamon powder over time. As long as you buy high quality powder and use it within several months, room temperature storage is fine.
Conclusion
When shopping for the highest quality cinnamon, look for brands that specify 100% pure Ceylon or Cassia cinnamon powder. Check for organic certification as well. The powder should have a very fine, smooth texture without grittiness. Freshness is key - the aroma and taste should be robust.
Avoid cheap cinnamon powders with off odors or flavors. Be willing to pay a little extra for the good stuff, as quality cinnamon can make a big improvement in your cooking and baking. With some careful shopping, you can find a reasonably priced cinnamon powder that delivers excellent flavor, aroma, and freshness.