An easy homemade cinnamon sugar recipe, yet profoundly delightful in its simplicity. Perfect for sprinkling over buttered toast, dusting fresh doughnuts like our Bollos Paraguayos, or adding a delectable twist to your favorite desserts. Made with just two basic ingredients, this mix has become a favorite in our kitchen. It’s not only tasty but also quick to make. Whether you’re having a breakfast treat or baking for the family, this cinnamon sugar will surely be a hit.
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What is Cinnamon Sugar?
Cinnamon sugar is a sweet and aromatic seasoning blend made from granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. It is a classic ingredient used in many sweet dishes and baked goods and is often used as a topping for toast, pancakes, waffles, French toast, oatmeal, and other breakfast foods. It can also flavor coffee, tea, hot cocoa, and other warm beverages.
It is a popular ingredient in many fall and winter desserts, such as cinnamon rolls, apple pie, and Snickerdoodle cookies. The warm, comforting flavor of cinnamon sugar is beloved by many, and it is a simple and easy-to-make recipe that can be enjoyed in various ways.
About This Cinnamon Sugar Recipe:
- Taste: This recipe for Cinnamon sugar yields a delightful balance of sweetness from the sugar and warm spiciness from the cinnamon.
- Texture: When mixed thoroughly, cinnamon sugar has a fine, sandy texture. The sugar crystals provide a gentle crunch, while the powdered cinnamon interspersed within the sugar ensures an even distribution of flavor. This grainy consistency makes it perfect for coating the surface of baked goods or melting into the nooks and crannies of toasted bread.
- Method: Making this cinnamon sugar recipe is uncomplicated and straightforward. It involves mixing together ground cinnamon and sugar. The mixture is then stored in an airtight container to keep it fresh. The ratio can be adjusted based on personal preference, with some favoring a sweeter mix and others a spicier one. The key is to ensure the ingredients are blended well for even flavor distribution.
Cinnamon Sugar Ingredients
Note: The full ingredients list is provided in the recipe card below.
- Granulated sugar: This ingredient provides sweetness in this mixture. The sugar crystals add a crunchy texture to the blend when sprinkled on top of food or beverages, and when combined with cinnamon, the sugar helps to balance the slightly bitter flavor of the spice.
Sugar
- Ground cinnamon: Cinnamon is the crucial ingredient that gives this seasoning its characteristic warm and aromatic flavor. Ground cinnamon is made from the bark of the cinnamon tree and is widely used in sweet and savory dishes worldwide. When combined with sugar, cinnamon adds a spicy, earthy flavor that complements the sweetness of the sugar and adds depth and complexity to the blend.
Tools you’ll need
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar
Note: The full instructions are provided in the recipe card below.
Blend the sugar and cinnamon until fully combined. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
👀👉Note: This cinnamon sugar recipe is versatile, allowing you to adjust it according to your taste preferences for a more pronounced cinnamon flavor. Reduce the sugar to 5 oz / 140g.
Substitutions
Sugar:
- Brown Sugar: Provides a deeper, molasses-like flavor.
- Coconut Sugar: Offers a slight coconut undertone and is considered to have a lower glycemic index.
- Maple Sugar: Delivers a maple twist to the mix.
- Raw Sugar or Turbinado: Gives a slightly coarser texture with a caramel-like flavor.
Cinnamon:
- Ground Nutmeg or Allspice: These can be used in combination with cinnamon or as a slight variation, but they carry different flavor profiles.
- Cinnamon Extract: If you’re out of ground cinnamon, a few drops of cinnamon extract can be used. However, be cautious as it’s very potent.
- Cinnamon Sticks: These won’t work for the sugar mixture directly, but they can be ground to make fresh cinnamon powder.
Remember, the resulting flavor will differ based on the substitutes you choose. Adjust according to your personal preference and the specific needs of your recipe.
Variations
- Vanilla Cinnamon Sugar: Add a few drops of vanilla extract or the seeds from a vanilla bean pod to your mix. This imparts a lovely, aromatic vanilla flavor alongside the warmth of cinnamon.
- Spiced Cinnamon Sugar: Mix in a pinch of ground nutmeg, cardamom, or allspice to create a spicier and more complex flavor profile.
- Zesty Cinnamon Sugar: Add some finely grated orange or lemon zest to the mixture. This gives a refreshing citrus note that contrasts beautifully with the warmth of the cinnamon.
- Cocoa Cinnamon Sugar: Mix in a bit of unsweetened cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist. This variation is especially good on toast or churros.
- Coconut Cinnamon Sugar: Replace regular sugar with coconut sugar and consider adding some finely shredded coconut. This will give a tropical touch to your cinnamon sugar.
- Maple Cinnamon Sugar: Blend in some maple sugar or a few drops of maple extract to get that classic autumnal maple flavor.
- Ginger Cinnamon Sugar: Add some ground ginger to the mixture for a bit of a zing. This variation is especially delightful during the holiday season.
Experimenting with different variations can elevate simple dishes and create signature flavors that become a hit in your home. Adjust the ratios to your taste, and enjoy your culinary adventures!
How to Serve
Cinnamon sugar is a versatile seasoning that can be enjoyed in various ways. Its sweet and spicy flavor makes it the perfect topping for breakfast foods like pancakes, waffles, toast, and oatmeal, and warm beverages like coffee, tea, and hot cocoa. It can also be mixed with butter or cream cheese to create a delicious spread for bagels or toast.
For a sweet and crunchy snack, sprinkle it over popcorn or use it as a seasoning for baked goods like muffins, cakes, and cookies. Additionally, it can be used as a topping for fresh fruit to add a warm and comforting flavor. With so many delicious ways to enjoy cinnamon sugar, it’s no wonder it’s a beloved ingredient in kitchens worldwide.
How to Store
Cinnamon sugar can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for several months, making it a convenient pantry staple. However, keeping it away from moisture and direct sunlight is essential to maintain its flavor and texture.
Make-Ahead
Cinnamon sugar is a great make-ahead ingredient that can save you time in the kitchen. To prepare it ahead of time, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in an airtight container and store it at room temperature for several months. You can also prepare a larger batch of cinnamon sugar and store it in a sealed bag or container in the freezer for up to 6 months. This is an excellent option for quick and easy breakfasts or snacks if you want cinnamon sugar on hand.
When ready to use your pre-made cinnamon sugar, remove it from the container or bag and sprinkle it over your desired food or beverage. You don’t need to reheat it or do anything else to enjoy its delicious flavor and aroma. By making cinnamon sugar ahead of time, you’ll save yourself the hassle of measuring the ingredients every time you want to use it. Plus, having it on hand will make it easy to add a touch of sweetness and spice to your favorite foods and drinks whenever the mood strikes.
How to Freeze
Cinnamon sugar is a great ingredient to freeze, as it can be stored for long periods without losing its flavor or texture. Mix granulated sugar and ground cinnamon to freeze it, then scoop it into a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. Remove any excess air from the bag before sealing it and label it with the date and contents. Store the bag or container in the freezer for up to 6 months.
When ready to use your frozen cinnamon sugar, allow it to come to room temperature before using it. Avoid thawing and refreezing the mixture, which can affect its texture and flavor. Frozen cinnamon sugar is perfect for adding to baked goods, oatmeal, coffee, or other warm beverages. By freezing cinnamon sugar, you’ll always have it on hand whenever you need a quick and easy way to add sweetness and spice to your favorite foods and drinks.
Tips for Making The Best Cinnamon Sugar
- Use good-quality ingredients: Since this recipe is so simple, it’s essential to use good-quality ingredients. Choose fresh, fragrant ground cinnamon and good-quality granulated sugar to ensure your cinnamon sugar has the best flavor.
- Mix the ingredients well: Mix the ground cinnamon and granulated sugar well to ensure an even distribution of the spices. You don’t want clumps of cinnamon or sugar in your mixture.
- Adjust the ratio to your liking: Depending on your taste preferences, you may want to adjust the balance of cinnamon to sugar. Start with the recommended recipe ratio and add more cinnamon if you want a more robust cinnamon flavor or more sugar if you want it sweeter.
- Experiment with variations: Feel free to experiment with different spices and sweeteners to create unique blends. Try adding vanilla extract, nutmeg, or cardamom for a different flavor.
- Store in an airtight container: Store your cinnamon sugar in an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent moisture from affecting its texture. A clean, dry jar with a tight-fitting lid or a resealable bag will work well.
FAQ
Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar in cinnamon sugar?
You can use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar in cinnamon sugar. However, remember that brown sugar has a higher moisture content, so the texture of the mixture may be slightly different.
Can I use ground cinnamon sticks instead of pre-ground cinnamon?
You can use ground cinnamon sticks instead of pre-ground cinnamon, but it’s essential to ensure that the cinnamon sticks are finely ground to avoid any clumps in the mixture.
Can I freeze cinnamon sugar?
Yes, cinnamon sugar can be frozen in an airtight container or resealable freezer bag for up to 6 months.
How can I use cinnamon sugar in baking?
Cinnamon sugar can be used as a topping for baked goods like muffins, cakes, and cookies or can be incorporated into the batter or dough to add flavor. However, remember that cinnamon sugar may affect the texture of the baked goods, so adjust the recipe as needed.
Related Recipes:
- Whole wheat cinnamon rolls
- 100 whole wheat cinnamon rolls
- Cinnamon coffee
- Monkey Bread
- Snickerdoodles Cookies
- Apple Pie Bars
📖 Recipe
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar
Tools
- Measuring Cups & Spoons
Ingredients
- 230 g ( 8 oz ) granulated sugar
- 30 g ( 1 oz ) ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Blend the sugar and cinnamon until fully combined. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
- 👀👉Note: This cinnamon sugar recipe is versatile, allowing you to adjust it according to your taste preferences for a more pronounced cinnamon flavor. Reduce the sugar to 5 oz / 140g.
Notes
All nutritional information is based on third-party calculations and is only an estimate. Each recipe and nutritional value will vary depending on the brands you use, measuring methods, and portion sizes per household.
