10 Genius Ways to Grind Cinnamon Sticks Like a Pro (Without Losing Your Sanity)

Ever stared at a whole cinnamon stick, wondering how in the world you’re supposed to turn that into usable powder? You're not alone. Grinding cinnamon sticks can feel like wrestling an uncooperative wooden wand — especially when your recipe demands finely ground spice and you only have sticks.

In this guide, we’ll walk through 10 practical hacks for grinding cinnamon sticks, from kitchen staple tools to genius upcycling ideas. Whether you're a pro chef or a weekend baker, there’s a trick here for you. And yes, we’ll even explain why some methods are better than others (hint: your blender might not be the best choice).

Table of Contents

• Tool Comparison Table
• Hack #1: The Classic Mortar & Pestle Method
• Hack #2: Spice Grinder Magic
• Hack #3: Coffee Grinder Conversion
• Hack #4: Blending It Up
• Hack #5: Rolling Pin Roll & Crush
• Hack #6: Grater Grind Trick
• Hack #7: Nutribullet Hack Attack
• Hack #8: Food Processor Finesse
• Hack #9: Microwave + Mortar Combo
• Hack #10: DIY Manual Spice Mill Upgrade
• Bonus: How to Store Ground Cinnamon Properly
• FAQs About Grinding Cinnamon
• Conclusion

Grinding Tool Showdown: Which One Wins?

Tool	Best For	Time Required	Texture Achieved	Clean-Up Effort
Mortar & Pestle	Small batches, aroma lovers	3–5 mins	Fine to medium	Medium
Spice Grinder	Consistency seekers	1–2 mins	Ultra fine	Low
Coffee Grinder	Power grinders	2 mins	Very fine	High
Blender	Multitaskers	3–4 mins	Coarse to medium	High
Rolling Pin	Kitchen improvisers	5–7 mins	Coarse chunks	Low
Microplane	Precision users	4–6 mins	Fluffy dust	Medium

Hack #1: The Classic Mortar & Pestle Method

For those who love doing things the old-school way (and enjoy a little arm workout), the mortar and pestle is a classic option.

• Break the cinnamon sticks into small pieces
• Add a few pieces to the mortar
• Use the pestle in a circular grinding motion
• Tap the sides to bring down loose bits

Pro Tip: Add a pinch of sugar or salt to help with the grinding process — it acts like sandpaper and speeds things up.

Hack #2: Spice Grinder Magic

If you already own a dedicated spice grinder (like a mini version of a coffee grinder), this method is a no-brainer.

• Break sticks into 1-inch segments
• Load into the spice grinder
• Grind in short bursts until powdered

Why it works: These grinders are built specifically for spices, so they handle hard materials better than blenders.

Hack #3: Coffee Grinder Conversion

Yes, you can use a coffee grinder! Just keep it separate from your actual coffee beans unless you want pumpkin spice latte vibes all year round.

• Dry the sticks first (microwave them for 30 seconds if needed)
• Break into smaller pieces
• Use quick pulses until desired consistency

Warning: Clean thoroughly afterward or risk cross-flavor contamination!

Hack #4: Blending It Up

Your everyday blender can work in a pinch — just know its limits.

• Break sticks into ½ inch pieces
• Add to blender and pulse repeatedly
• Use a tamper to push down bits

Downside: Not all parts may get fully pulverized. Sift afterward and re-grind larger chunks.

Hack #5: Rolling Pin Roll & Crush

No power tools? No problem. Grab a rolling pin and channel your inner caveman.

• Place sticks on a cutting board under a ziplock bag
• Roll firmly until sticks break apart
• Crush further with the side of a knife

Perfect for: rustic recipes where texture isn’t critical, like stews or mulled wine.

Hack #6: Grater Grind Trick

If you’ve got a microplane or cheese grater, you can literally “shave” cinnamon into powder.

• Secure the grater over a bowl
• Rub the end of the stick along the holes
• Collect fine shavings as you go

Note: This method is slow but rewarding — great for small quantities and impressing guests with your spice ninja skills.

Hack #7: Nutribullet Hack Attack

Mini blenders like the Nutribullet can do more than smoothies — they’re surprisingly effective for grinding spices.

• Break sticks into tiny bits
• Fill the cup halfway
• Blend in short bursts until powdery

Advantage: The tall, narrow design helps create a vortex for better grinding.

Hack #8: Food Processor Finesse

A full-size food processor can handle multiple sticks at once, making it ideal for large batches.

• Break sticks into manageable sizes
• Process until powder forms
• Sift and repeat if needed

Tip: Run the processor longer than you think — cinnamon has a tendency to clump.

Hack #9: Microwave + Mortar Combo

This hack gives brittle cinnamon sticks a dry boost before manual grinding.

• Place broken sticks on a microwave-safe plate
• Microwave for 30–45 seconds
• Let cool slightly, then crush with mortar & pestle

Result: Crisper sticks = easier grinding = finer powder.

Hack #10: DIY Manual Spice Mill Upgrade

If you’re crafty and love repurposing old tools, try this clever hack.

• Grab an old manual pepper mill
• Empty out peppercorns and clean well
• Fill with cinnamon stick pieces

Bonus: You now have a portable cinnamon dispenser — perfect for sprinkling magic directly into oatmeal or hot cocoa.

Bonus: How to Store Ground Cinnamon Properly

Once you’ve gone through the trouble of grinding, make sure your efforts don’t go to waste.

• Store in an airtight container away from light and moisture
• Keep in a cool, dark cupboard — not next to the stove
• Label with date — ground cinnamon lasts about 2 years

Pro Tip: If using often, consider storing a small portion in a shaker for easy access.

FAQs About Grinding Cinnamon

Can I eat cinnamon sticks raw?

Technically yes, but they’re quite tough and bitter. Chewing on them for flavor is common, but consuming large pieces can cause digestive issues.

Is there a difference between cinnamon sticks and ground cinnamon?

Chemically, no. But freshly ground sticks offer more aromatic oils and potency than store-bought pre-ground cinnamon.

How much cinnamon powder does one stick make?

On average, 1 cinnamon stick yields about 1 teaspoon of coarsely ground powder.

Do I need to toast cinnamon sticks before grinding?

Not necessary, but lightly toasting them in a dry pan can enhance their flavor and aroma before grinding.

Can I use a meat grinder?

You could, but unless it's a fine attachment, you'll likely end up with chunks instead of powder.

Conclusion

Whether you're whipping up holiday cookies, spiced chai, or a savory Moroccan tagine, knowing how to grind cinnamon sticks opens up a world of culinary possibilities. From high-tech spice grinders to kitchen improv with a rolling pin, these 10 hacks give you the flexibility to work with what you’ve got — no fancy tools required.

Remember, the key to successful cinnamon grinding is breaking the stick into smaller pieces and choosing the tool that matches your needs. Freshly ground cinnamon not only tastes better but also packs more punch per spoonful.

So next time you reach for that cinnamon stick in the back of the pantry, don’t let it intimidate you. Crack it open — both literally and figuratively — and let the warm, spicy magic begin.