5 Delicious Recipes with Ceylon Cinnamon
Long before cinnamon found its way into sticky buns and holiday lattes, it was a treasured gift from the lush forests of Sri Lanka. Known as Ceylon cinnamon or true cinnamon, this delicate, golden spice has a history richer than its flavor, and that's saying something.
Today, Ceylon cinnamon is having its moment in kitchens around the world, thanks to its health benefits, mild sweetness, and unmistakable aroma. If you’re still sprinkling it only on toast, you’re missing out.
Here are five simple, delicious recipes that showcase the full culinary charm of Ceylon cinnamon. These aren’t just treats, they’re stories on a plate.
1. Golden Cinnamon Oats
Let’s begin where all good days should: with breakfast. This creamy oat bowl gets a warm, earthy upgrade with Ceylon cinnamon, turning your morning fuel into something truly comforting.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 2 cups almond milk (or milk of choice)
- 1 banana, mashed
- ½ tsp Ceylon cinnamon powder
- 1 tsp maple syrup or honey
- Pinch of sea salt
- Toppings: sliced apples, walnuts, chia seeds
Instructions:
In a saucepan, combine oats, milk, mashed banana, cinnamon, and salt. Cook on medium heat until thick and creamy (about 5–7 minutes). Stir in sweetener. Top with fruit and nuts for texture and nutrition.
Why Ceylon cinnamon?
It’s gentle on the stomach, naturally sweet, and pairs beautifully with oats, making it perfect for a morning metabolism boost.
2. Cinnamon-Spiced Lentil Soup
This warm, savory dish is inspired by Sri Lankan flavors, where cinnamon is often used in curries and broths, not just desserts.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- ½ tsp Ceylon cinnamon
- ½ tsp turmeric
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro to garnish
Instructions:
In a large pot, sauté onion, garlic, carrot, and ginger in olive oil. Add spices and cook until fragrant. Stir in lentils and broth. Simmer for 20 minutes or until lentils are soft. Blend half the soup for a creamy texture or leave it rustic. Garnish with cilantro.
3. Cinnamon Sweet Potato Fries
A simple recipe with an unexpected kick. Cinnamon brings out the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes while adding depth and aroma.
Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, cut into wedges
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Ceylon cinnamon
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
Toss sweet potato wedges in oil, cinnamon, paprika, and salt. Spread on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 30–35 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Why it works:
Ceylon cinnamon enhances caramelization, giving the fries a beautifully crisp edge and earthy sweetness.
4. Cinnamon Banana Smoothie
This easy smoothie is both a dessert and fuel. Creamy, cold, and spiced just right, it’s a go-to for busy mornings or post-workout recovery.
Ingredients:
- 1 frozen banana
- 1 cup almond milk
- 1 tbsp peanut butter or almond butter
- ½ tsp Ceylon cinnamon
- 1 tsp chia seeds (optional)
- Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
Blend everything until smooth. Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon on top before serving.
Health bonus:
Ceylon cinnamon may help support blood sugar balance, making this smoothie not just delicious, but functional.
5. Spiced Apple Compote
This quick apple compote is cinnamon-forward, tangy, and perfect for spooning over pancakes, yogurt, or even grilled meats.
Ingredients:
- 3 apples, peeled and chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- ½ tsp Ceylon cinnamon
- Pinch of nutmeg
- 2 tbsp water
Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a saucepan. Simmer over medium heat for 10–15 minutes until apples are soft and syrupy. Serve warm or chilled.
Most of the cinnamon sold in stores is cassia cinnamon, which is darker, stronger, and contains higher levels of coumarin, a natural compound that can be harmful in large quantities. Ceylon cinnamon, on the other hand, is lighter in color, sweeter in taste, and safer for daily use, especially in food.
Refer:
Why Ceylon cinnamon is the best cinnamon in the world