A Warm Blend of Stunning Spices

When we think about cinnamon, we usually land on pastries or mulled wine—while we love both, this little spice brings so much more to the table! From chicken dry rubs to delectable breakfast cookies, here are 20 recipes for any cinnamon lover.

1. French Toast

How could we talk about cinnamon without mentioning everyone’s favorite breakfast? Eggs, milk, vanilla, and cinnamon turn everyday bread slices into a warmly spiced dish that perfectly kicks off the morning. Top with powdered sugar and you’re good to go!

2. Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal

If you’re looking for something a little healthier, apple cinnamon oatmeal is your best friend in the morning. Rolled oats and brown sugar make a simple base for toppings like vanilla, cinnamon, and chopped nuts. You can also add diced apples for even more nutrients.

3. Vanilla Cinnamon Chia Pudding

Chia seeds may be small, but they have enough fiber and protein to make a big impact! With just a few tablespoons in some almond milk, sprinkle in a pinch of cinnamon and vanilla. Whether you eat it that morning or store it in the fridge, chia pudding keeps you nice and full.

4. Breakfast Cookies

We know cookies for breakfast sounds like something our inner child asks for! However, these start the day right with rolled oats, cinnamon, vanilla, and flaxseed. You can even add chopped walnuts or a pinch of pumpkin spice for a truly warm flavor.

5. Cinnamon Muffins

A splash of low-fat milk, a dash of cinnamon and nutmeg, and half a cup of sugar are all it takes for tasty muffins that don’t add to your waistline. If a pinch of cinnamon isn’t enough, feel free to roll those freshly baked muffin tops in even more of it.

6. Roasted Carrots

Not everyone likes carrots, but you might feel differently after this recipe. With a healthy coating of garlic, cinnamon, and honey, everyone’s least favorite vegetable transforms into the talk of the table. Make extra because everyone will want a taste!

7. Pork Chops and Apple

Who doesn’t love slathering a juicy chop in apple sauce? What about apple slices and ground cinnamon? We thought so! Kick dinner up a notch with some onion, brown sugar, cinnamon, and fresh rosemary. If you need a little heat, cayenne pepper’s always an option.

8. Chicken Drumsticks

Cinnamon and fresh herbs don’t sound like the best pair on paper, but they’re a delicious duo for drumsticks. Salt and pepper, fresh thyme, garlic, and cinnamon coat your chicken in a mouthwatering dry rub perfect any day of the week.

9. Pumpkin Chili

While there isn’t much cinnamon in this recipe, it’s still an important ingredient to combat winter blues! Chili powder, cumin, and cinnamon bring together your beans and spicy Italian sausage. You’re left with a thick, hearty meal best enjoyed on a nippy evening.

10. Pulled Pork Sandwiches

If pork chops and apple slices aren’t your thing, try pulled pork sandwiches. The best part of this recipe is that you can alter the spices as you like—some chefs like cumin and cayenne pepper with their cinnamon while others opt for garlic powder and paprika.

11. Gingerbread Loaf

Why spring for Starbucks prices when you can make your own gingerbread loaf at home? All you need is ginger, allspice, cloves, and cinnamon (among other things) to make a moist loaf bursting with flavor.

12. Cinnamon Rolls

Though cinnamon rolls look complicated, they’re actually quite easy to make! Sure, you’ll need at least two hours before they’re ready, but with a little yeast, eggs, and milk, you can bake your own fluffy masterpiece at home.

13. Snickerdoodle Cheesecake

Sink your teeth into something really special—snickerdoodle cheesecake, made in one hour with only a handful of ingredients! Sour cream, sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon tie the whole thing together, leaving you with nothing but the best slice of cake.

14. Apple Cinnamon Donuts

Can’t get enough of apple pastries? Cinnamon? Donuts? Treat yourself to all three with this easy-peasy recipe! Believe it or not, they don’t take longer than 30 minutes to make, and you only need your everyday baking ingredients like milk and sugar. (Of course, you’ll need apples and cinnamon too.)

15. Cinnamon Monkey Bread

Monkey bread can take several hours from scratch, but we’ve got good news—you can also make it with packaged cinnamon rolls. The only additional ingredients you need for the shortcut are sugar and cinnamon.

16. Cinnamon Dolce Latte

As we close the list, it’s time to dive into our favorite cinnamon sips. You won’t need much for this Starbucks copycat; espresso powder, cinnamon, sugar, and half-and-half whip up the ideal winter drink. Don’t forget the cinnamon stick garnish!

17. Spiced Mulled Wine

Spiced mulled wine needs a good number of ingredients, but it’s more than worth it. Cloves, cinnamon sticks, and assorted fruit garnish elevate an ordinary glass of red into the ultimate treat. It’s a great option for dinner parties too.

18. Cinnamon Date Smoothie

We know cinnamon and apple pair well together, but do you know what else cinnamon loves? Dates! Get these two together for a delicious smoothie you can comfortably sip any time, just don’t forget the flaxseed and almond butter for a nutritious touch.

19. Sangria

Snow or shine, sangria is an optimal choice for get-togethers. That said, cinnamon does add a certain warmth perfect for colder months, so break out this recipe in the fall or winter. Don’t worry, all the apples, brandy, and orange slices warm those bones.

20. Cinnamon Hot Chocolate

The only thing that makes hot chocolate better is cinnamon. Even if you make it from scratch, it won’t take more than 10 minutes and a couple of ingredients—milk, cocoa powder, vanilla, and cinnamon. Just make sure you top it off with whipped cream!