Cinnamon Sugar- The best ratio for a perfect pair.
If you’re in the mood for a warm and comforting dessert or a sweet snack, cinnamon sugar has got you covered. The ratio of one part cinnamon to 4 parts sugar (1:4) gives you that perfectly balanced cinnamon sugar blend with a warm, aromatic spice and just the right amount of sweetness.
There’s no wrong way to use it! Coat the top of these Nutella muffins, rim the glass of apple cider sangria, dip a hot old-fashioned pumpkin donut in it or sprinkle it on top of buttered sourdough for cinnamon toast.
Table of Contents
- Cinnamon Sugar- The best ratio for a perfect pair.
- Types of Cinnamon: Which One Should You Use?
- The Best Cinnamon Sugar Ratio
- Ingredients You’ll Need
- How to Make This Homemade Cinnamon Sugar
- Expert Tips for the Best Cinnamon Sugar
- Favorite Ways to Use Cinnamon Sugar
- Storage Tips
- Recipe FAQs
- More Homemade Seasoning Recipes
- The Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Ratio (+ Expert Tips) Recipe
Types of Cinnamon: Which One Should You Use?
Cinnamon comes from the inner bark of a tree. Each type of cinnamon comes from different trees. It’s very light in color when it’s harvested, gets darker as it dries, and is then ground into powder. There are 4 different types of cinnamon. The two most popular are Ceylon cinnamon and Cassia cinnamon. The type of cinnamon you use impacts the flavor of your cinnamon sugar. Here’s a quick guide:
- Ceylon Cinnamon: Mild and citrusy, this “true cinnamon” is perfect for desserts or when you want a softer flavor.
- Cassia Cinnamon: Includes varieties like Saigon or Korintje cinnamon, known for their bold and spicy flavors—ideal for baked goods or when you want a stronger kick.
- Korintje Cinnamon: Strong, spicy, and sweet with a hint of heat; ideal for baked goods and spicy dishes. Originates from Indonesia.
- Saigon Cinnamon: Robust, spicy, and sweet; perfect for baking and cooking with bold flavors. Originates from Vietnam.
The Best Cinnamon Sugar Ratio
The tried-and-true ratio for cinnamon sugar is 1 part cinnamon to 4 parts sugar (1:4). This blend offers a robust warm cinnamon flavor without overpowering the sweetness. Here’s how it looks with different measurements:
- 1 cup sugar + ¼ cup of cinnamon
- ½ cup sugar + 2 tablespoons of cinnamon
- ¼ cup sugar + 1 tablespoon of cinnamon
For a milder cinnamon flavor, simply halve the cinnamon:
- 1 cup sugar + 2 tablespoons cinnamon
- ½ cup sugar + 1 tablespoon cinnamon
Pro tip: Start with less cinnamon, taste your mixture, and adjust as needed. You can always add more cinnamon, but you can’t remove it!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Sugar: Granulated white sugar is classic, but substitutes like brown sugar, coconut sugar, or turbinado sugar work too, adding unique flavors and textures.
- Ground Cinnamon: Choose a quality cinnamon for the best results. Ceylon cinnamon is mild and sweet, while Cassia varieties pack more spice.
For exact ingredient amounts and instructions, see the printable recipe card below.
How to Make This Homemade Cinnamon Sugar
Step 1: Add the half cup of sugar and the 4 tablespoons of cinnamon to a small bowl. Stir well with a spoon or small whisk until all of the cinnamon is evenly distributed into the sugar.
*If you prefer a milder cinnamon sugar flavor, start with 2 tablespoons of cinnamon for every 1 cup of sugar. Add more cinnamon as desired.
Step 2: Store in a container with a tight-fitting lid at room temperature for at least 6 months.
Expert Tips for the Best Cinnamon Sugar
- Use high-quality cinnamon. The better the cinnamon, the better your mix will taste.
- Mix thoroughly. Make sure the cinnamon is evenly distributed to avoid clumps.
- Double the batch. It’s so versatile, you’ll want a big batch on hand for spontaneous baking!
Favorite Ways to Use Cinnamon Sugar
This versatile mix can elevate everything from breakfast to desserts:
- Sprinkle on cinnamon sugar toast or French toast.
- Rim glasses for drinks like maple bourbon smash or pumpkin spiced lattes.
- Use as a topping for muffins or soft pretzels.
- Add to pie crust or baked goods like snickerdoodle cookies or gooey cinnamon rolls.
- Mix into roasted veggies, like sweet potatoes or butternut squash, for a sweet-savory twist.
- Dust over popcorn for a fun movie night treat.
- Stir into oatmeal, yogurt, or pancake batter for added flavor.
Gift idea: Package homemade cinnamon sugar in a mason jar with a festive bow. Add a recipe tag with suggestions like cinnamon toast or pumpkin cinnamon rolls for an easy and thoughtful gift!
Storage Tips
Keep your cinnamon sugar fresh by storing it in an airtight container, such as a clean spice jar or any container that seals well.
When stored in a cool, dry place, cinnamon sugar can have a long shelf life and last up to 1 year.
Recipe FAQs
Absolutely! Brown sugar adds a hint of molasses, which pairs beautifully with cinnamon, especially in baked goods.
No, cinnamon sugar is a mix of ground cinnamon and sugar, while cinnamon powder is pure ground cinnamon.
Ceylon cinnamon is mild and sweet, while Cassia varieties (like Saigon) are bolder and spicier. Choose based on your taste preference.
When stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, it stays fresh for up to 1 year.
Use coconut sugar, monk fruit sugar, or a low-calorie sweetener like erythritol as a substitute for granulated sugar.
More Homemade Seasoning Recipes
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The Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Ratio (+ Expert Tips)
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Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 2 Tablespoons (16g) ground cinnamon (Note 1 mild cinnamon flavor)
Instructions
- Add the sugar and cinnamon to a medium bowl. Stir well with a spoon until all of the cinnamon is evenly distributed into the sugar. Use in your favorite cinnamon sugar recipes.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for at least 6 months.
Notes
Equipment
- Small bowl for mixing
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
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Thank you for your simple recipe.
You’re welcome, John!
Great Ratios.
I make cinnamon toast every morning in the
school year for grandchildren.
Appreciate the ratio chart. It was a great help.
Thanks,
Thanks!!