Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Recipe

Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Recipe

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Please note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

  • 1/4 cup bakers ultrafine cane sugar (caster sugar)
  • 1 teaspoon ground Indonesian cinnamon
  • 2 teaspoons ground Ceylon cinnamon

Directions

Step 1: In a glass jar with a resealable lid, combine the bakers sugar and cinnamon.

Step 2: Stir well until evenly mixed.

Step 3: Secure the lid on the jar and store until ready to use.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories 14
Total Fat 0g
Saturated Fat 0g
Cholesterol 0mg
Sodium 0mg
Total Carbohydrate 4g
Dietary Fiber 0g
Total Sugars 3g
Protein 0g
Vitamin C 0mg
Calcium 5mg
Iron 0mg
Potassium 2mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

The Story and Heritage of Cinnamon Sugar

Cinnamon sugar, a simple yet delightful combination of ground cinnamon and sugar, has a rich history that stretches back centuries. Cinnamon itself was prized in ancient civilizations, including Egypt, where it was used in both culinary and ceremonial contexts. The practice of mixing cinnamon with sugar emerged in Europe during the Middle Ages, when sugar became more accessible through trade with the East. By the 18th and 19th centuries, cinnamon sugar had become a beloved staple in American kitchens, often sprinkled on breads, pastries, and breakfast treats.

Regional Variations and Preferences

Different regions have their own takes on cinnamon sugar. In the United States, it is most commonly associated with breakfast items like cinnamon toast, coffee cake, and snickerdoodles. In Latin America, a similar mixture is used to coat churros and other fried pastries. European countries often use it as a topping for baked goods, such as the Danish kanelsnegle, a type of cinnamon roll. The type of cinnamon used also varies: Ceylon cinnamon, known for its delicate sweetness, is favored in gourmet applications, while Cassia cinnamon provides a stronger, more pungent flavor.

What Sets Cinnamon Sugar Apart

While many spice-sugar combinations exist, cinnamon sugar is unique due to its versatility and balance of warmth and sweetness. Unlike nutmeg-sugar blends or pumpkin spice mixes, cinnamon sugar can enhance both sweet and savory dishes without overpowering other flavors. Its texture can also vary depending on the type of sugar used: ultrafine sugar creates a smooth coating for delicate pastries, while coarser sugar adds a satisfying crunch when sprinkled over baked goods.

Typical Serving Occasions

Cinnamon sugar is most commonly used at breakfast and dessert tables. It is a favorite topping for toast, muffins, pancakes, and oatmeal. Beyond the kitchen, it is often found at fairs and bakeries, where it enhances churros, doughnuts, and other sweet treats. In many households, it is stored in small jars for everyday use, offering a quick way to elevate simple dishes with minimal effort.

Interesting Facts About Cinnamon Sugar

  • Cinnamon sugar is believed to help preserve baked goods due to the antimicrobial properties of cinnamon.
  • Mixing cinnamon and sugar in advance ensures consistent flavor distribution in recipes.
  • In some cultures, cinnamon sugar is used symbolically during holidays to represent warmth, prosperity, and sweetness in life.
  • Gourmet versions often pair Ceylon cinnamon with fine sugar, enhancing the aroma and subtlety of the mixture.
  • Despite its simplicity, cinnamon sugar has inspired countless variations, from spiced coffee blends to seasonal desserts like cinnamon sugar roasted nuts.

FAQ about Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Recipe

Homemade cinnamon sugar should be stored in an airtight container, such as a glass jar with a resealable lid. Keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Proper storage will help preserve its flavor and prevent moisture from affecting the texture.

If stored properly in an airtight container, homemade cinnamon sugar can last for up to 6 months. However, for the best flavor and quality, it’s recommended to use it within 2 to 3 months.

Yes, you can adjust the cinnamon-to-sugar ratio to suit your personal preference. If you like a stronger cinnamon flavor, add more cinnamon. For a milder taste, reduce the cinnamon amount.

Yes, you can use different types of cinnamon. This recipe uses a combination of Indonesian cinnamon and Ceylon cinnamon, which gives a balanced flavor. You can experiment with other types like Saigon or Cassia cinnamon, but keep in mind that the flavor profile may change.

Homemade cinnamon sugar is great for a variety of uses. You can sprinkle it on toast, oatmeal, pancakes, waffles, or baked goods like muffins and cookies. It can also be used in coffee or as a topping for fruits like apples or pears.

Yes, you can easily scale up the recipe to make a larger batch. Just maintain the same ratio of sugar to cinnamon and store it in a larger airtight container. Remember that the freshness of the ingredients can affect the flavor over time, so it’s best to make only as much as you’ll use within a few months.

Homemade cinnamon sugar allows you to control the ingredients and avoid any added preservatives or artificial flavors that may be present in store-bought versions. However, it is still a sugar-based product, so it should be used in moderation.

Yes, you can experiment with different types of sugar, such as brown sugar or coconut sugar. Keep in mind that using different sugars may affect the texture and flavor of the cinnamon sugar, so adjustments may be needed.

Yes, homemade cinnamon sugar can be used in baking recipes. It’s perfect for dusting on top of cinnamon rolls, muffins, cakes, and cookies before or after baking.

Yes, if you don’t have ultrafine (caster) sugar, you can use regular granulated sugar. However, ultrafine sugar dissolves more easily and creates a smoother texture in the cinnamon sugar. If you use granulated sugar, it might have a slightly coarser texture.

Comments

Amanda Torres

04/01/2024 11:57:10 PM

Literally perfect in every way.

Lela

04/01/2024 01:39:01 PM

The cinnamon sugar was easy to make. The combination of sugar to cinnamon was just right. Instead of just sprinkling sugar and adding the cinnamon each time I eat cinnamon toast, I now just grab the small container of prepared cinnamon sugar.

MaryLou

03/25/2024 12:41:07 AM

We found this cinnamon-sugar recipe to be the perfect ratio. You could definitely add more or less cinnamon to your liking. We tried it on cinnamon toast and oatmeal. We liked it on both. It's a great mixture to have on hand.

Yoly

03/24/2024 12:55:05 AM

This was good but I think maybe it could use a bit more cinnamon. Other than that it was good.