Grind Like a Pro: 7 Cinnamon Stick Hacks That’ll Make You the Kitchen Ninja!

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Tool Time: Choosing Your Grinding Sidekick
• Hack #1: The Microwave Magic Trick
• Hack #2: Freeze It, Then Crush It!
• Hack #3: Coffee Grinder = Spice Ninja
• Hack #4: The Mortar & Pestle Masterclass
• Hack #5: Toast First for Maximum Flavor Boom
• Hack #6: DIY Cinnamon Powder in Bulk (Yes, Really)
• Hack #7: Use a Microplane – Who Knew?
• Storing Your Ground Cinnamon Like a Pro
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
• Conclusion

Intro: Why You Need to Know How to Grind Cinnamon Sticks

Cinnamon sticks are like the hidden ninja scrolls of your spice rack. Sure, they look harmless sitting there in your pantry, but when ground right, they unlock flavor superpowers that pre-ground cinnamon can only dream of.

Figure 1: Whole cinnamon sticks — ready for battle.

Tool Time: Choosing Your Grinding Sidekick

Before we jump into the hacks, let’s talk tools. Not all grinders are created equal. Here's a quick comparison:

Tool	Pros	Cons	Best For
Coffee Grinder	Fast, consistent grind	Can retain flavors	Daily grinding
Mortar and Pestle	Purely satisfying	Labor-intensive	Small batches
Microplane	Easy, no setup	Inconsistent texture	Quick fixes
Blender/Food Processor	Versatile	Too coarse unless toasted	Batch processing

Hack #1: The Microwave Magic Trick

If you’ve ever tried grinding fresh cinnamon sticks, you know they’re tougher than a two-dollar steak. Enter: the microwave trick.

1. Break the stick into smaller pieces.
2. Place in a microwave-safe bowl.
3. Microwave for 20-30 seconds until dry and brittle.
4. Now it grinds like butter!

Figure 2: Microwaving cinnamon sticks makes them easier to grind.

Hack #2: Freeze It, Then Crush It!

This one sounds more like a revenge plan than a kitchen tip, but hear me out. Freezing your cinnamon sticks makes them shatter like glass when hit with force.

• Wrap sticks in parchment paper.
• Place in freezer for 1–2 hours.
• Use a rolling pin or meat mallet to crush.
• Then sift and grind finer if needed.

Figure 3: Crushing frozen cinnamon sticks for an instant powder burst.

Hack #3: Coffee Grinder = Spice Ninja

Using a dedicated coffee grinder for spices is like giving your knife set its own secret lair. Just toss your dried or toasted cinnamon sticks in and pulse until fine.

• Make sure the cinnamon is completely dry.
• Use short pulses to avoid overheating.
• Clean the grinder after each use to avoid cross-flavoring.

Figure 4: Coffee grinder turning cinnamon sticks into fine powder in seconds.

Hack #4: The Mortar & Pestle Masterclass

If you're looking for a meditative, almost zen-like way to prep your cinnamon, this is it. Plus, crushing with a mortar and pestle releases more oils and aromas than any electric tool.

1. Toast the cinnamon sticks first (see Hack #5).
2. Add to the mortar in small batches.
3. Use circular motions and apply pressure with the pestle.
4. Presto! Aromatic cinnamon dust.

Figure 5: Old-school method, modern-day flavor boost.

Hack #5: Toast First for Maximum Flavor Boom

Toasting cinnamon sticks before grinding wakes up their natural oils and intensifies the aroma. Try this before any grinding method:

• Heat a dry skillet over medium heat.
• Add cinnamon sticks and toast for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly.
• Let cool slightly before grinding.

You'll taste the difference immediately — richer, deeper, and oh-so-delicious.

Hack #6: DIY Cinnamon Powder in Bulk (Yes, Really)

If you love baking or making chai regularly, why not stock up? Here’s how to make a big batch:

1. Buy cinnamon sticks in bulk (Ceylon is best for flavor).
2. Toaster oven or air fryer at 250°F (120°C) for 10–15 mins.
3. Let cool, then process in a blender or coffee grinder.
4. Store in an airtight container away from light.

Figure 6: Bulk prep = kitchen efficiency superhero status achieved.

Hack #7: Use a Microplane – Who Knew?

For small amounts, just grab your microplane zester. It works surprisingly well on dried or toasted sticks. Simply rub the stick against the fine holes like you're sharpening a pencil.

• No extra equipment needed.
• Great for sprinkling into oatmeal or lattes.
• Slightly coarser than ground powder, but flavorful!

Storing Your Ground Cinnamon Like a Pro

Once ground, cinnamon loses potency faster. Keep it fresh with these tips:

• Use dark glass jars — light kills flavor.
• Store in a cool, dry place (not above the stove).
• Label with the date — shelf life is about 1–2 years.
• Avoid moisture — add silica packs if you live in a humid area.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a regular blender instead of a coffee grinder?

Absolutely, but the results may be inconsistent. Toast the sticks first and pulse in short bursts for best results.

Is there a difference between Ceylon and Cassia cinnamon for grinding?

Yes! Ceylon is smoother and sweeter, ideal for desserts. Cassia is stronger and better suited for savory dishes or spiced tea blends.

Do I have to toast cinnamon before grinding?

Nope, but it enhances the flavor significantly. If you’re short on time, skip it, but don’t skip it twice in a row — once you taste the toasted version, there’s no going back.

Conclusion: Become the Cinnamon Whisperer

Learning how to grind cinnamon sticks isn’t just a skill — it’s a culinary upgrade that brings depth, warmth, and authenticity to your cooking. Whether you’re using a high-tech coffee grinder or channeling ancient wisdom with a mortar and pestle, the power is in your hands (and nose).

So go ahead, crack open those sticks, unleash the inner spice warrior, and impress your taste buds — or your dinner guests. Either way, you win.

Figure 7: You’ve just joined the elite spice squad.