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Cinnamon sugar is a timeless combination for topping desserts, rimming glasses, dipping treats, and more. Use this homemade cinnamon sugar recipe for the best cinnamon sugar ratio. It takes just two ingredients and two minutes to make.
Looking for ways to use up your cinnamon sugar? 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.
If you’re in the mood for a warm and comforting dessert or a sweet snack, cinnamon sugar has got you covered. There’s no wrong way to use it!
If you like being able to skip the additional cost of store-bought spices, try some of our other homemade seasoning blends. Some of our favorites are carnitas seasoning, elote seasoning, homemade steak seasoning, and blackening seasoning.
The Best Cinnamon Sugar Ratio
The best ratio of cinnamon to sugar is 1:4! That means one part cinnamon and 4 parts sugar. This ratio yields a strong cinnamon flavor:
- 1 cup of sugar and 1/4 cup of cinnamon
- 1/2 cup sugar and 2 Tablespoons cinnamon
- 1/4 cup sugar and 1 Tablespoon of cinnamon
- 1 Tablespoon sugar and 3/4 teaspoon cinnamon
If you want a milder cinnamon flavor, cut the cinnamon ratios above in half. Here are examples of measurements for cinnamon sugar with a milder cinnamon flavor.
- 1 cup sugar and 2 Tablespoons cinnamon
- 1/2 cup sugar and 1 Tablespoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 Tablespoon sugar and 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
Pro tip: start with less cinnamon, taste, and add more as needed. You can always add more cinnamon, but you can’t remove it.
Ingredients You Need
Here are the simple ingredients for this cinnamon sugar recipe. Most are pantry staples and are easy (and affordable) to find in grocery stores. Jump down to the recipe card for exact measurements.
The best part about this simple recipe is that it only calls for two simple ingredients:
- Sugar: If you don’t have white sugar on hand, you can use a sugar substitute like dark brown sugar, coconut sugar, or other substitutes for coconut sugar like turbinado or palm sugar.
- Ground cinnamon: Adds warmth, a natural sweetness, and subtle spiciness.
How to Make Homemade Cinnamon Sugar
The full printable recipe is below. Before you jump down, let’s walk through the steps with some photos and a video so you have a clear idea of what to expect. This cinnamon sugar is really easy and these step-by-step instructions will ensure it turns out every time.
- Add the half cup of sugar and the 4 tablespoons of cinnamon to a medium bowl. Stir well with a spoon or small whisk until all of the cinnamon is evenly distributed into the sugar. Use in your favorite cinnamon sugar recipes.
- 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.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for at least 6 months.
Types of Cinnamon
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
Ceylon Cinnamon
- Also known as “true cinnamon.”
- Originates from Sri Lanka (formerly known as Ceylon), India, Madagascar, and the Seychelles.
- Has a mild, sweet, and delicate flavor with citrusy notes.
- Light tan to light brown in color and has thin, fragile layers that can be easily ground into powder.
- Contains lower levels of coumarin, which can be potentially harmful when consumed in large quantities.
.Cassia Cinnamon
- Includes several varieties such as Chinese cassia, Indonesian cinnamon, and Saigon cinnamon.
- Grown primarily in China, Indonesia, and Vietnam.
- Has a stronger, spicier flavor compared to Ceylon cinnamon, with a hint of bitterness.
- Dark reddish-brown in color and consists of thicker, harder quills or sticks.
- Contains higher levels of coumarin.
Korintje Cinnamon
- Primarily comes from Indonesia, in the regions of Sumatra and Java.
- Has a strong, spicy, and sweet flavor with a hint of heat and a slight bitterness.
- Popular for baked goods and spicy dishes.
- Its sticks tend to curl inward on both ends.
- Most likely sold in your local grocery store as ground cinnamon or cinnamon sticks.
Saigon Cinnamon
- Originates from Vietnam.
- Known for its robust and spicy flavor.
- Also has a sweetness that makes it so appealing in baking and cooking.
- Moderate use of Saigon cinnamon is recommended.
Favorite Ways to Use Cinnamon Sugar
How you use your mixture of cinnamon and sugar is really up to personal preference. This flavor combination will elevate your breakfast, snacks, and desserts.
- Sprinkle it on French toast or the childhood favorite cinnamon sugar toast.
- Place it in a small bowl and add it to the rim of a glass of apple cider sangria.
- Mix it into a pie crust or the crust of any sweet treat like these snickerdoodle apple pie bars.
- Add it to homemade pretzels or homemade cinnamon rolls like one of our favorite recipes: pumpkin cinnamon rolls.
- Sprinkle cinnamon sugar over your favorite dessert, fresh fruit, or ice cream.
- Have some home chefs in your life? Make them their own cinnamon sugar jar, tie a festive bow around it, and attach a tag with ideas for holiday recipes to add it to!
FAQs
Cinnamon is rich in antioxidants and some studies suggest that cinnamon may have anti-inflammatory properties, which can be beneficial for overall health. However, granulated sugar is considered an added sugar and can be calorie dense. Moderation is key when consuming cinnamon sugar. Using it as a flavoring in recipes or as a light sprinkle on dishes can add flavor without excessive sugar intake.
Cinnamon contains plant compounds with protective antioxidant properties. Furthermore, it has anti-inflammatory effects and some research suggests that it may be protective against colds and flu. Finally, cinnamon may also help regulate blood sugar.
Storing Cinnamon Sugar
Store cinnamon sugar mixture in an old spice container, a small mason jar with a tight-fitting lid, or just an airtight container. If stored in a cool, dry place it has a long shelf life of up to a year.
If you make this recipe, I’d love for you to give it a star rating ★ below. You can also tag me on Instagram so I can see it!
More Cinnamon Recipes
For a cozy, fall treat, try our pumpkin cinnamon rolls, cinnamon streusel paleo carrot muffins, or soft and chewy snickerdoodles.
If it’s savory you’re after, try our maple cinnamon roasted butternut squash or homemade crockpot applesauce.
Treat yourself to a fun drink this fall. This iced cinnamon dolce latte will hit the spot!
Cinnamon Sugar (The Best Ratio)
Save this Recipe!
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.
