Ground Cinnamon vs. Cinnamon Sticks: Which One Is Better

If you're an avid cook or baker, you've probably come across recipes that call for either ground cinnamon or cinnamon sticks.

But which form of this popular spice is better? In this article, we'll compare the two varieties to help you decide which one is best for your culinary creations.

What Is Ground Cinnamon:

Ground cinnamon is a fine powder made from grinding cinnamon sticks. It is widely used in baking, cooking, and even beverages to add a warm and sweet flavor. 

Ground cinnamon is convenient to use and readily available in most grocery stores. It's perfect for sprinkling on oatmeal, adding to smoothies, or mixing into dessert recipes.

What Are Cinnamon Sticks:

Cinnamon sticks, on the other hand, are the dried bark of the cinnamon tree rolled into quills. 

They are often used whole in simmering pots, mulled drinks, and some recipes where the spice needs to be removed before serving. 

Cinnamon sticks are also commonly used in crafting homemade spice blends or infusing flavor in liquids like teas and punches.

Flavor And Aroma:

When it comes to flavor and aroma, both ground cinnamon and cinnamon sticks offer distinctive profiles. 

Ground cinnamon tends to have a more intense and concentrated flavor due to its fine texture, making it ideal for baked goods and recipes where the spice needs to be evenly distributed. 

On the other hand, cinnamon sticks have a milder flavor that is released slowly, perfect for infusions and long simmering dishes.

Shelf Life And Storage:

In terms of shelf life, cinnamon sticks have a longer life span compared to ground cinnamon. 

The whole cinnamon sticks can last for up to two years if stored in a cool, dark place in an airtight container. 

Ground cinnamon, on the other hand, tends to lose its potency more quickly, lasting about six months to a year before it starts to lose its flavor.

Versatility In Cooking:

While both forms of cinnamon are versatile in cooking, ground cinnamon is more convenient for everyday use. 

It can be easily measured and added to recipes without any extra preparation. 

Cinnamon sticks, on the other hand, require steeping or grinding before use, making them more suitable for infusions or long simmering dishes where the spice can impart its flavor slowly.

Which One Is Better:

So, which form of cinnamon is better? The answer ultimately depends on your culinary needs and preferences. 

If you're looking for convenience and easy incorporation into recipes, ground cinnamon is the way to go.

However, if you prefer a more subtle and slow release flavor, cinnamon sticks might be the better choice for you. 

Both ground cinnamon and cinnamon sticks have their own unique advantages and uses in the kitchen.

Experiment with both forms to discover which one works best for your dishes and enjoy the warm and comforting flavor of this beloved spice.