Cinnamon Powder Vs Ground Cinnamon: What Is The Difference?

Cinnamon Powder vs Ground Cinnamon: What is the difference ?

Cinnamon is one of the most popular spices in the world, known for its warm and sweet aroma and taste. It is a versatile spice that can be used in a variety of dishes, from sweet to savory.
However, when it comes to buying cinnamon, you may be faced with a dilemma: should you go for cinnamon powder or ground cinnamon? What is the difference between the two? Read on to  know everything about the differences between cinnamon powder and ground cinnamon, so you can make an informed choice next time you're at the grocery store.

Types of Cinnamon

Cinnamon comes in various types, each offering distinct flavors and characteristics.

Cassia cinnamon, commonly found in supermarkets, has a robust and slightly spicy taste, often associated with classic cinnamon flavor.

Ceylon cinnamon, known as "true" or "sweet" cinnamon, has a more delicate and citrusy profile, lending itself well to desserts and delicate dishes.

Saigon cinnamon, renowned for its high oil content, delivers a bold and spicy flavor with a hint of sweetness. Each type of cinnamon brings its unique essence to the table, making them versatile additions that elevate the taste of both sweet and savory dishes alike.

The Source

Let's start with the basics. Cinnamon is derived from the bark of the Cinnamomum tree, which is native to Sri Lanka and other parts of Asia. The bark is harvested and dried, then ground into a powder or left in its whole form, which is known as cinnamon sticks.

Cinnamon powder is made by grinding the dried bark into a fine powder. It is commonly used in baking, as it is easier to mix into recipes than whole cinnamon sticks. Ground cinnamon is also used in drinks like hot chocolate, coffee, and tea.

On the other hand, ground cinnamon is made by grinding cinnamon sticks into a fine powder. This type of cinnamon is commonly used in savory dishes like stews and curries, as well as in baking. It has a coarser texture than cinnamon powder and a slightly different flavor profile.

So, what is the difference between the two? 

The Texture

The main difference is in their texture. Cinnamon powder is much finer and easier to mix into recipes, whereas ground cinnamon has a coarser texture and can add a bit of crunch to dishes. This means that cinnamon powder is better suited for baking, while ground cinnamon is better suited for savory dishes.

The Flavor Profile

Another difference is in their flavor profile. While both types of cinnamon have a sweet and warm flavor, ground cinnamon has a more intense and slightly bitter taste. This is because the flavor compounds in cinnamon are concentrated in the bark, and grinding the bark into a powder releases more of these compounds. 

Team Cinnamon Powder or Team Ground Cinnamon?

So, which one should you choose? It ultimately depends on what you're using it for.

•  

  If you're baking, cinnamon powder is the way to go. It's easier to mix into recipes and will give your baked goods a smoother texture. 
• If you're making a savory dish, ground cinnamon is the better choice. Its coarser texture and more intense flavor will add depth and complexity to your dish.
• However, there are some situations where you can use either type of cinnamon. 

For example, if you're making a cinnamon sugar topping for toast or oatmeal, either type will work just fine. It all comes down to personal preference and what you have on hand.

To sum up, cinnamon powder and ground cinnamon are both delicious and versatile spices that can be used in a variety of dishes. While they have some differences in texture and flavor, both types of cinnamon have similar properties. So, the next time you're at the grocery store, choose the type of cinnamon that best suits your needs and enjoy the warm and comforting flavor of this beloved spice.