Mexican Cinnamon Sticks: What They Are, How They Differ, and How to Use Them

Table of Contents

• What Is Mexican Cinnamon?
• Mexican Cinnamon vs. Regular Cinnamon: Key Differences
• Authentic Mexican Recipes & Cooking Tips
• How to Choose Authentic Mexican Cinnamon Sticks
• Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Mexican Cinnamon?

Mexican cinnamon sticks, known as "canela" in Spanish, are a variety of true cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum) grown in Mexico. Unlike the more common cassia cinnamon found in U.S. supermarkets, Mexican cinnamon has a delicate, sweet flavor with subtle floral notes. It's essential in traditional Mexican dishes like champurrado, mole sauces, and pan de muerto, and contains significantly less coumarin than cassia cinnamon, making it safer for regular consumption.

Mexican Cinnamon vs. Regular Cinnamon: Key Differences

Feature	Mexican Cinnamon (Ceylon)	Regular Cassia Cinnamon
Flavor Profile	Mild, sweet, and delicate with floral notes	Strong, spicy, and pungent
Texture	Thin, flexible, and easy to break	Thick, hard, and brittle
Origin	Grown in Mexico (Ceylon variety)	Primarily from China and Indonesia
Coumarin Content	Very low (safe for daily use)	High (excessive intake may harm liver)
Best Uses	Traditional Mexican dishes, delicate desserts, and health-focused recipes	Strong-flavored baked goods and spice blends

Authentic Mexican Recipes & Cooking Tips

Here's how to use Mexican cinnamon sticks in traditional and modern dishes:

• Champurrado: Simmer 1 cinnamon stick with masa harina, chocolate, and milk for authentic Mexican hot chocolate.
• Arroz con Leche: Add a stick while cooking rice pudding for subtle sweetness without overpowering flavor.
• Mole Sauce: Use 1-2 sticks to balance complex spices in this traditional Mexican sauce.
• Hot Beverages: Steep in coffee, tea, or milk for 5-10 minutes to release aromatic flavors.
• Baking: Break into small pieces for breads, cakes, and cookies. Remove before serving.

How to Choose Authentic Mexican Cinnamon Sticks

Follow these expert tips to identify genuine Mexican cinnamon:

• Appearance: Look for light reddish-brown sticks that are thin and flexible. Avoid dark, brittle pieces.
• Aroma: Fresh Mexican cinnamon has a sweet, floral scent. Stale sticks smell musty or faint.
• Labeling: Check for "Ceylon cinnamon" or "Cinnamomum verum" on packaging. True Mexican cinnamon is always a Ceylon variety.
• Source: Purchase from specialty Latin American markets or reputable spice retailers who specify Mexican origin.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Mexican cinnamon the same as Ceylon cinnamon?

Yes. Mexican cinnamon is a specific variety of Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum) grown in Mexico. All Mexican cinnamon is Ceylon, but not all Ceylon cinnamon is Mexican. The term "Mexican cinnamon" refers to Ceylon cinnamon cultivated in Mexico, which has slightly different flavor characteristics due to local growing conditions.

Why is Mexican cinnamon better for health than regular cinnamon?

Mexican cinnamon (Ceylon) contains 100-200x less coumarin than cassia cinnamon. High coumarin intake can cause liver damage, making Mexican cinnamon the safer choice for daily consumption, especially in recipes requiring large quantities like hot chocolate or baked goods.

How many cinnamon sticks should I use in recipes?

For beverages: 1 stick per 2 cups of liquid. For sauces and stews: 1 stick per 4 cups. For baking: 1-2 broken pieces per recipe. Always remove sticks before serving as they continue releasing flavor while steeping.

Can I substitute Mexican cinnamon for regular cinnamon?

Yes, but adjust quantities. Mexican cinnamon has a milder flavor, so you may need slightly more than cassia cinnamon for equivalent taste. For health-conscious cooking, Mexican cinnamon is always the safer choice due to low coumarin levels.

How should I store Mexican cinnamon sticks?

Keep in an airtight container away from light and moisture. Properly stored, they maintain peak flavor for 1-2 years. Never refrigerate, as humidity causes clumping and degrades quality.