Did you know that there’s a super-fun holiday dedicated to celebrating one of the world’s most popular spices? That’s right, there’s a whole day dedicated to cinnamon! In today’s blog, we’re going to explore lots of different things about cinnamon, including how it’s harvested, the two different types of cinnamon, and what you can do with it. Read on to honor National Cinnamon Day with our recommended cinnamon spirits and cocktails.

Of course, our favorite thing to do with anything you see on our holiday blogs is, you guessed it, mix it into cocktails! And today’s no exception – we’re bringing you 10 different cinnamon cocktails, including cinnamon whiskey cocktails, and how to make your own cinnamon vodka and cinnamon syrup for cocktails! So, let’s get started, shall we?

What Is Cinnamon?

Cinnamon is a spice that has been enhancing our culinary creations and beverages for centuries. Derived from the bark of various trees belonging to the Cinnamomum family, this spice is known for its sweet and spicy flavor and its warm, comforting aroma.

The Two Types of Cinnamon:

Cinnamon primarily comes from two distinct varieties, each with its unique characteristics: Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum) and Cassia cinnamon (Cinnamomum cassia or Cinnamomum aromaticum). 

• Ceylon cinnamon, often referred to as “true” cinnamon, is cultivated primarily in Sri Lanka and is recognized for its delicate, mild, and sweet taste. 
• Cassia cinnamon, on the other hand, is more widely available and is known for its bolder, spicier flavor. 

Both varieties offer a delightful combination of sweet and spicy notes, making them versatile ingredients in both sweet and savory dishes.

How Is Cinnamon Harvested?

After the young branches of cinnamon trees are pruned, the inner bark is carefully stripped away and removed. This inner bark is what we commonly refer to as cinnamon sticks or quills. 

The harvested bark is then left to dry, naturally curling into the familiar shape we recognize. The sticks can then be ground into the powder or left as-is for infusions into sauces and liquids. 

What & When Is National Cinnamon Day?

National Cinnamon Day falls on the first of November, inviting anyone who appreciates the warmth of cinnamon to come together and celebrate. Throughout this blog, we’ll give you tons of ideas and information to help you celebrate, too – if you’d like!

The History of National Cinnamon Day

National Cinnamon Day may be a relatively new addition to the list of culinary celebrations, but cinnamon itself runs deep in history. The rich, aromatic, and versatile spice, cinnamon, has been cherished for centuries across cultures and continents. Its journey from an exotic luxury to a spice we use and celebrate today is definitely a fascinating one.

Historically, cinnamon was a rare and precious commodity, known for its remarkable flavor, fragrance, and medicinal properties. It was so highly regarded that it played a significant role in ancient trade routes and sparked explorations that reshaped the entire world. Arab traders zealously guarded their sources in Ceylon (modern-day Sri Lanka).

As time passed, the once-elusive cinnamon became more accessible, and its value in the culinary world soared. 

How to Celebrate National Cinnamon Day

National Cinnamon Day is a time to embrace the warm, comforting, and spicy allure of this beloved spice. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie, a mixology enthusiast, or simply looking for an excuse to indulge in some cinnamon goodness, there are countless ways to celebrate. Here are some suggestions to make your National Cinnamon Day special:

1. Make cinnamon rolls in the morning for breakfast
2. Add some cinnamon or a cinnamon-flavored creamer to your morning coffee
3. Bake some cinnamon-focused desserts for the day – hello, snickerdoodles!
4. Try your hand at (or go out to eat for) a delicious cinnamon curry
5. Create a cinnamon vodka or mix up some cocktails with cinnamon spirits
6. Drink some cinnamon tea
7. Sip on a glass of cinnamon whiskey, neat or on the rocks
8. Check out a local spice market, if you have one
9. Share any and all of your creations on social media with the hashtag #CinnamonDay or #NationalCinnamonDay

Are There any Cinnamon Spirits?

Cinnamon spirits, cinnamon vodka, and cinnamon liqueur have been making waves in the world of mixology – and we’re not even mad about it. They offer a warm and spicy dimension to all of your favorite drinks. Next, we’ll explore a variety of cinnamon-infused spirits and liquors that you can incorporate into your National Cinnamon Day celebrations. Let’s take a look:

#1: Fireball Cinnamon Whiskey

Heat Meets Sweet

Fireball Cinnamon Whiskey is undoubtedly one of the most well-known cinnamon-infused spirits. With a bold and spicy profile, this cinnamon whiskey packs a fiery punch that’s both thrilling and sweet. The perfect combination of hot and cool, Fireball is a favorite among those who enjoy a little heat in their drinks.

#2: Cinnabon Cinnamon Liqueur

Indulgent Creaminess with a Cinnamon Kick

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to sip on a cinnamon roll, Cinnabon Cinnamon Liqueur is your answer. This creamy delight infuses the comforting taste of cinnamon with a rich, luscious texture. It’s like dessert in a glass, making it an ideal choice for those with a sweet tooth.

#3: Cinnamon Schnapps

Versatile and Spicy

Cinnamon schnapps are a versatile choice for those who want to explore the world of cinnamon cocktails. Various distilleries produce cinnamon schnapps, and its intense cinnamon flavor can elevate a wide range of drinks. Whether you’re mixing it with coffee, hot chocolate, or other spirits, cinnamon schnapps is a valuable addition to your bar.

#4: Homemade Cinnamon-Infused Spirits, Like Cinnamon Vodka

Did you know that you can make your own infused spirits? That’s right. Read on in the next section to figure out how to make your own cinnamon vodka for your at-home bar. Or, make up a batch to split up into Christmas gifts for your friends and family!

How to Make Cinnamon Vodka

One of the most exciting ways to enjoy cinnamon spirits is by infusing your favorite liquor at home. It’s a fun and rewarding experiment that allows you to customize the level of cinnamon intensity to your liking. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to create your own cinnamon vodka at home:

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

Start by ensuring you have all the necessary ingredients and equipment ready. You’ll need a bottle of vodka, cinnamon sticks, a sterilized glass container with a tight-sealing lid, and (optionally) a funnel for easier pouring.

Step 2: Select Your Cinnamon Sticks

You can use either Ceylon or Cassia cinnamon sticks, depending on your flavor preference. Ceylon cinnamon is sweeter and milder, while Cassia cinnamon has a spicier, bolder flavor. Choose the one that suits your taste.

Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon Sticks

Break the cinnamon sticks into smaller pieces to increase their surface area. This allows the vodka to infuse with the cinnamon more effectively. You can use a mortar and pestle or your hands to break them into smaller segments.

Step 4: Combine Vodka and Cinnamon

Open the bottle of vodka and add the broken cinnamon sticks directly into it. You can use a funnel to make this process smoother. For a 750ml bottle of vodka, 3-4 cinnamon sticks are typically sufficient, but you can adjust the amount to taste.

Step 5: Seal and Shake

Seal the vodka bottle tightly and give it a good shake to evenly distribute the cinnamon sticks within the liquid.

Step 6: Store in a Cool, Dark Place

Place the sealed bottle in a cool, dark area, away from direct sunlight. This is where patience comes into play. Allow the cinnamon-infused vodka to sit for at least 3-5 days, but longer is better. The longer it infuses, the more intense the cinnamon flavor will be.

Step 7: Shake Periodically & Taste

Throughout the infusion period, shake the bottle gently every day or two. This helps the cinnamon release its flavors into the vodka more effectively.

After a few days, begin taste-testing your cinnamon vodka to check its flavor intensity. When it reaches your desired level of spiciness and warmth, you can stop the infusion process.

Step 8: Strain and Transfer

Once you’re satisfied with the flavor, strain the cinnamon vodka to remove the cinnamon sticks. You can use a fine-mesh strainer, a coffee filter, or cheesecloth for this. Transfer the infused vodka back into its original bottle or another glass container for storage.

Step 9: Enjoy Your Cinnamon Vodka in Cocktails or Bottle Up as a Gift

Your homemade cinnamon vodka is now ready to use in cocktails. Create a variety of delicious drinks with this flavorful spirit, or simply savor it on the rocks. Store the infused cinnamon vodka in a cool, dark place, and it should remain good for several months.

How to Make a Cinnamon Simple Syrup

Here’s how to make cinnamon simple syrup for your cinnamon cocktails:

1. Gather 1 cup of water, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 4-5 cinnamon sticks.
2. In a saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
3. Stir in the granulated sugar until it dissolves completely.
4. Break the cinnamon sticks into smaller pieces and add them to the boiling sugar-water mixture.
5. Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the cinnamon to infuse into the syrup.
6. Remove from heat and let the cinnamon syrup cool to room temperature.
7. Strain the syrup to remove the cinnamon pieces.
8. Pour the cinnamon syrup into a clean, airtight container or bottle.
9. Store it in the refrigerator, and it will stay fresh for several weeks. Enjoy!

10 Cinnamon Cocktails to Sip on for National Cinnamon Day

Cinnamon, with its sweet and spicy vibes, has the power to transform cocktails from ordinary to extraordinary. Here are some classic favorites like the Cinnamon Old Fashioned and unique mixes like the Cinnamon Pineapple Rum Punch. Check these out:

The Cinnamon Old Fashioned

1. In a mixing glass, combine 2 oz bourbon, ½ oz cinnamon simple syrup, and 2 dashes Angostura bitters.
2. Add ice and stir until well-chilled.
3. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass with a large ice cube.
4. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and enjoy.

The Cinnamon Apple Mule

1. Fill a copper mug with ice.
2. Add 2 oz vodka, 1 oz cinnamon schnapps, 4 oz apple cider, and ½ oz lime juice.
3. Top with ginger beer.
4. Stir gently and garnish with an apple slice and a cinnamon stick.

The Cinnamon Toast Crunch Martini

1. Rim a martini glass with cinnamon sugar.
2. In a shaker, combine 2 oz cinnamon whiskey, 1 oz RumChata, and 1 oz butterscotch schnapps with ice.
3. Shake well and strain into the martini glass.
4. Garnish with a cinnamon stick.

Spiced Cinnamon Sour

1. Dry shake (shake without ice) 2 oz bourbon, ¾ oz lemon juice, ½ oz cinnamon syrup, and an egg white (optional) to froth up the egg white, if using.
2. Add ice and shake vigorously.
3. Strain into a chilled sour glass.
4. Dust the top with cinnamon powder for garnish.

Cinnamon Rosemary Gin Fizz

1. In a shaker, combine 2 oz gin, ¾ oz fresh lemon juice, and ½ oz rosemary-cinnamon syrup with ice.
2. Shake well and strain into a highball glass filled with ice.
3. Top with club soda.
4. Garnish with a rosemary sprig and a cinnamon stick.

Boozy Cinnamon Hot Chocolate

1. Prepare 4 oz hot chocolate, however you prefer.
2. Stir in 1 ½ oz cinnamon liqueur.
3. Top with whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon powder.

Cinnamon Maple Whiskey Sour

1. In a shaker, combine 2 oz bourbon, ¾ oz fresh lemon juice, ½ oz cinnamon syrup, and ¼ oz maple syrup with ice.
2. Shake well and strain into a rocks glass with ice.
3. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and a lemon twist.

Cinnamon Cranberry Margarita

1. Rim a margarita glass with cinnamon-sugar.
2. In a shaker, combine 2 oz tequila, 1 oz triple sec, 1 oz lime juice, and 1 oz cinnamon-cranberry syrup with ice.
3. Shake well and strain into the glass.
4. Garnish with fresh cranberries.

Cinnamon Pineapple Rum Punch

1. In a shaker, combine 2 oz dark rum, 3 oz pineapple juice, 1 oz orange juice, and ½ oz cinnamon syrup with ice.
2. Shake well and strain into a tall glass with ice.
3. Garnish with a pineapple slice and a cinnamon stick.

Cinnamon Espresso Martini

1. In a shaker, combine 2 oz vodka, 1 oz coffee liqueur, ½ oz cinnamon schnapps, and 1 oz cold brew coffee with ice.
2. Shake well and strain into a chilled martini glass.
3. Dust the top with cinnamon powder for garnish.

How to Find Local Spirits for Your Cinnamon Cocktails at Distillery Nearby

Are you looking for some above-average, craft spirits to use in your National Cinnamon Day cocktails? Look no further than our distillery directory. Here, you can find new and intriguing distilleries in your local area. Then, you can call them up or visit them in person to try what they have to offer! So, what are you waiting for?

Check out our distillery directory today →

Happy National Cinnamon Day!