Are you a fan of warm, comforting flavors? Look no further! Cinnamon is a staple spice that adds depth and complexity to countless recipes, from sweet treats like pancakes and breads to savory dishes like stews and roasted vegetables. In this article, we’ll explore the many uses of cinnamon in 18 mouthwatering recipes that will satisfy your cravings and keep you cozy all year round.
From classic breakfast favorites like Cinnamon Roll Pancakes and Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal to indulgent sweet treats like Cinnamon Sugar Donuts and Pumpkin Cinnamon Bread, our list has something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of spicy chilies or soothing teas, cinnamon’s warm, comforting flavor is sure to please.
Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
Start your day with a delicious and comforting breakfast treat that combines the flavors of cinnamon rolls and pancakes. These Cinnamon Roll Pancakes are perfect for a weekend brunch or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Fold in cinnamon.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
6. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface.
8. Flip and cook an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes per batch of 4-6 pancakes.
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
Start your day off right with a comforting bowl of apple cinnamon oatmeal. This recipe combines the sweetness of apples with the warmth of cinnamon, all wrapped up in a hearty serving of rolled oats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup water or milk
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– 1/2 apple, diced (about 1/2 cup)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or milk to a simmer.
2. Add the oats, cinnamon, and salt. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and the mixture has thickened slightly.
3. Stir in the honey (if using) and diced apple.
4. Cook for an additional minute, or until the apple is tender.
5. Serve warm, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
Sweeten up your day with these soft and fluffy Cinnamon Sugar Donuts!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Cinnamon sugar mixture (see below)
Cinnamon Sugar Mixture:
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add milk, eggs, and melted butter; mix until smooth.
4. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
5. Punch down the dough and use a donut pan to shape into donuts.
6. Fry donuts for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
7. While still warm, toss donuts in Cinnamon Sugar Mixture.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pumpkin Cinnamon Bread
This moist and flavorful bread combines the sweetness of pumpkin puree with the warmth of cinnamon, perfect for a chilly fall or winter morning. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a delicious homemade treat that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine softened butter, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and egg. Mix until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread
This sweet and comforting bread is perfect for a cozy morning or afternoon treat. Moist banana flavor and a hint of cinnamon come together in a deliciously easy-to-make loaf.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, melted butter, egg, and cinnamon. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
6. Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Sprinkle evenly over the batter.
7. Top with remaining batter and sprinkle with chopped walnuts (if using).
8. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Chai-Spiced Cinnamon Cookies
Warm up with the cozy aroma of Chai-Spiced Cinnamon Cookies! These sweet treats combine the comforting flavors of cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom with the warmth of black tea spices to create a delightful treat perfect for snacking or gifting.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Chai spice blend (or a mix of ground cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms. Add Chai spice blend to taste.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Yield: About 24 cookies
Cinnamon Honey Butter
This delicious spread is perfect for topping toast, scones, or biscuits, adding a touch of warmth and sweetness to your breakfast or snack routine. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create this tasty treat in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons pure honey
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, cream together the softened butter and honey until smooth.
2. Add the ground cinnamon and mix until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust the sweetness or spice level by adding more honey or cinnamon as needed.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None
Sweet Potato Cinnamon Mash
This sweet potato mash is a delicious twist on traditional mashed potatoes, with the added warmth and comfort of cinnamon. Perfect as a side dish or topped with marshmallows for a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place sweet potato cubes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine roasted sweet potatoes, sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Mash with a fork or potato masher until smooth.
4. Add heavy cream and butter to the mashed sweet potatoes and mix until well combined.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional cinnamon if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cinnamon Raisin French Toast
Start your day with a sweet and satisfying breakfast treat – Cinnamon Raisin French Toast! This recipe combines the warmth of cinnamon and sweetness of raisins with the comfort of toasted bread, creating a delightful morning meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup raisins
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, and sugar until well combined.
2. Add the cinnamon and whisk until smooth.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
4. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
5. Place the coated bread slices on the skillet or griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Repeat with remaining bread slices.
7. Serve warm, topped with melted butter and a sprinkle of raisins.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Spiced Cinnamon Hot Chocolate
This velvety hot chocolate is infused with the warmth of cinnamon and other spices, perfect for cozying up on a chilly day. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be sipping on this delightful treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk (whole, 2%, or skim)
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1 tablespoon sugar (or to taste)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until steaming.
2. Add the cocoa powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
3. Add the sugar and salt. Whisk until dissolved.
4. If desired, stir in the heavy cream to give it an extra-rich texture.
5. Pour into mugs and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Cinnamon Apple Crisp
Warm up with a classic comfort treat: Cinnamon Apple Crisp!
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Mix until apples are evenly coated.
3. Transfer apple mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together rolled oats, brown sugar, and chopped walnuts (if using). Add melted butter and stir until crumbly.
5. Top apple mixture with oat mixture, spreading evenly.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until apples are tender and topping is golden brown.
Enjoy your warm and cozy Cinnamon Apple Crisp!
Cinnamon Vanilla Poached Pears
Poach pears in a fragrant cinnamon and vanilla-infused liquid to create a warm, comforting dessert. Perfect for a cozy evening or as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe but firm Bartlett pears
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 cinnamon stick (3 inches)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground vanilla powder
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine water, sugar, honey, and cinnamon stick.
2. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add the vanilla powder and stir to combine.
4. Peel the pears, leaving the stems intact. Place them in the poaching liquid, making sure they are fully submerged.
5. Simmer for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the pears are tender when pierced with a fork.
6. Remove from heat, then add butter and stir until melted.
7. Serve warm, garnished with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-35 minutes
Cinnamon Roasted Almonds
Cinnamon Roasted Almonds Recipe
Elevate your snack game with this simple recipe for cinnamon roasted almonds! With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup raw almonds
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Add the almonds to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the spice mixture.
4. Drizzle in olive oil and stir until the almonds are well coated.
5. Spread the almond mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast for 10-12 minutes or until fragrant and slightly darkened, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cinnamon Spiced Coffee Cake
Start your day with a delicious and aromatic coffee cake infused with the warmth of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, butter, eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom. Beat until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Moroccan Cinnamon Chicken Tagine
This classic Moroccan recipe combines the warm spices of cinnamon, ginger, and cumin with tender chicken, resulting in a deliciously aromatic tagine that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large clay or ceramic tagine or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, cinnamon, ginger, and salt; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken; cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Add broth, water, and honey; bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low; simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until chicken is tender.
7. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cinnamon Glazed Carrots
Sweet and sticky, these Cinnamon Glazed Carrots are a delightful side dish perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can transform humble carrots into a mouthwatering treat.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together brown sugar, honey, and melted butter until well combined.
3. Add chopped carrots, cinnamon, and salt to the bowl; toss until carrots are evenly coated with the glaze.
4. Spread carrot mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until carrots are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels
These soft and chewy pretzels are coated in a sweet cinnamon sugar mixture, perfect for snacking or serving as a dessert. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create these delicious treats at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 package active dry yeast
– 1 cup warm water
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
– Sesame seeds or pretzel salt for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine yeast and warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add melted butter, salt, and 2 cups of flour. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour.
5. Roll out the dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., pretzel rods).
6. In a small bowl, mix together sugar and cinnamon. Brush the tops of the pretzels with melted butter, then sprinkle with cinnamon sugar mixture.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cinnamon Infused Rice Pudding
Cozy up with a creamy and comforting bowl of rice pudding infused with the warmth of cinnamon. This classic dessert is elevated by the subtle sweetness and aromatic flavor of cinnamon, perfect for a chilly evening or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 cups milk (whole, low-fat or nonfat)
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cooked rice, milk, sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the pudding has thickened slightly.
3. Remove from heat and stir in melted butter until fully incorporated.
4. Pour into individual serving cups or a single large serving dish. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to warm up your taste buds with these 18 mouthwatering recipes that feature the star of the show: cinnamon! From sweet treats like Cinnamon Roll Pancakes and Cinnamon Sugar Donuts, to savory dishes like Moroccan Cinnamon Chicken Tagine and Cinnamon Glazed Carrots, there’s something for everyone. Discover how cinnamon can elevate classic breakfast foods like oatmeal and French toast, or add depth to comforting desserts like banana bread and cookies. With these recipes, you’ll be exploring the versatile world of cinnamon – sweet and savory, all in one place!
