The 10 best Cinnamon cocktails
An editorial shortlist of the Cinnamon cocktails most worth starting with.
Introduction
Spice Up Your Sips with Cinnamon!
Cinnamon, a warm and aromatic spice, is not just for holiday treats but a wonderful addition to cocktails, offering an earthy, sweet, and slightly spicy flavor that can transform a simple drink into a complex masterpiece.
This versatile spice, derived from the inner bark of several tree species from the genus Cinnamomum, has been cherished around the globe for centuries, not only for its culinary uses but for its medicinal properties as well. When it comes to cocktails, cinnamon adds depth and warmth, making it a favorite ingredient for both cool weather libations and refreshing summery concoctions. From enhancing the sweetness in fruity cocktails to adding a spicy edge to classic mixes, cinnamon’s distinctive flavor makes it a star in these top 10 cocktails.
Whether ground or as a stick, cinnamon infuses drinks with a richness that is hard to match.
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This concoction is a wonderful melding of fruitiness and spice, perfect for cold evenings or festive gatherings.
This concoction is a wonderful melding of fruitiness and spice, perfect for cold evenings or festive gatherings. Brandy and Pimm's No.
1 create a robust base, enveloped by the natural sweetness of apple juice and fresh fruits. The key ingredient, however, is the cinnamon, which infuses the punch with a warm, comforting aroma and flavor that ties all other elements together beautifully.
Beyond its delicious taste, this cocktail is steeped in tradition, often found warming hands and hearts during winter celebrations.
Ingredients: Brandy 500ml, Pimm's No. 1 500ml, Apple juice 1500ml, Orange 3, Apple 3, Cinnamon 2
Here, cinnamon plays a delicate yet definitive role in balancing the rich flavors of cognac and cream.
Here, cinnamon plays a delicate yet definitive role in balancing the rich flavors of cognac and cream. The pinch of cinnamon, combined with vanilla and a hint of sugar syrup, lends a comforting spice that complements the creamy texture and slightly sweet profile of the cocktail.
Egg white adds a silky frothiness, rounding out the drink into a smooth, luxurious libation. This cocktail is a testament to the finesse in using spices in mixology, showcasing how a pinch can elevate a drink from good to exquisite.
Ingredients: Cognac 60ml, Sugar / simple syrup 7.5ml, Milk 22.5ml, Cinnamon Pinch, Vanilla essence 2 drops, Cream 22.5ml, Egg 1 egg white
Imagine the ultimate comfort of a warm, chocolatey drink on a chilly night, now add a hint of sophistication with dark rum, and elevate it with the spice of cinnamon.
Imagine the ultimate comfort of a warm, chocolatey drink on a chilly night, now add a hint of sophistication with dark rum, and elevate it with the spice of cinnamon. This cocktail brings together the richness of hot chocolate with a spirited kick, while the cinnamon stick not only adds a festive aroma but also infuses the drink with its distinct, warming spice.
This concoction is more than a beverage; it's an experience, reminiscent of holiday joy and cozy evenings by the fire.
Ingredients: Dark rum 60ml, Honey 15ml, Milk 480ml, Vanilla essence Dash, Sugar 3 teaspoons, Cinnamon Stick, Hot chocolate 70g/half a cup
In this drink, cinnamon's role is subtle yet impactful, harmonizing with the earthy nutmeg, aromatic cloves, and citrus notes to create a deeply comforting and complex flavor profile.
In this drink, cinnamon's role is subtle yet impactful, harmonizing with the earthy nutmeg, aromatic cloves, and citrus notes to create a deeply comforting and complex flavor profile. The infusion of these spices with red wine and a touch of honey makes for a rich, soul-warming cocktail that’s reminiscent of ancient traditions and gatherings.
It's a classic example of how spices can transform simple ingredients into a celebratory concoction that brings people together.
Ingredients: Orange liqueur 15ml, Red wine 45ml, Lemon juice 15ml, Nutmeg Pinch, Cloves 5, Cinnamon Pinch, Orange Wedge , Honey 2 teaspoons
This vibrant concoction is a festive fusion of flavors where cinnamon shines as the star spice.
This vibrant concoction is a festive fusion of flavors where cinnamon shines as the star spice. It balances the sweetness of cranberry and orange juices with the boldness of red wine and Triple Sec, offering a sip that's both refreshing and comforting.
The cinnamon stick subtly infuses the drink, providing a warm, spicy undertone that ties the diverse flavors together, embodying the spirit of holiday celebrations in a glass.
Ingredients: Triple sec 60ml, Red wine 1 bottle, Orange juice 480ml, Cranberry juice 1500ml, Sugar / simple syrup 60ml, Orange 1 sliced, Sugar 1000ml, Cinnamon 1 stick, Almond extract Half teaspoon
This cocktail elevates traditional cider with a rich blend of spices, where cinnamon takes center stage, imbuing the drink with its warm, aromatic essence.
This cocktail elevates traditional cider with a rich blend of spices, where cinnamon takes center stage, imbuing the drink with its warm, aromatic essence. Paired with nutmeg, cloves, and a vanilla pod, it creates a harmoniously spiced cider that's perfect for autumn evenings.
The addition of fresh oranges and pomegranate provides a hint of sweetness and tartness, making this drink a heartwarming choice for any cozy gathering.
Ingredients: Cider 2000ml, Nutmeg Quarter , Orange 2, Sugar 4 tablespoons, Cinnamon Stick, Pomegranate 1, Cloves 6, Vanilla pod 1
Steeped in tradition, this drink showcases cinnamon in its most celebratory form.
Steeped in tradition, this drink showcases cinnamon in its most celebratory form. The spice's sweet and warm notes are a perfect match for the deep richness of red wine and brandy, creating a drink that's both invigorating and comforting.
The cloves and lemon add a bright contrast, making every sip a complex journey of flavors. It's a testament to the timeless appeal of mulled wine and the central role of spices like cinnamon in creating festive beverages.
Ingredients: Brandy 240ml, Red wine 750 ml, Lemon 1, Orange 3, Sugar 3 tablespoons, Cinnamon 6 sticks, Cloves 8
This cocktail is a wintery twist on the classic sidecar, with cinnamon adding an unexpected warmth and depth to the citrusy sharpness of the traditional ingredients.
This cocktail is a wintery twist on the classic sidecar, with cinnamon adding an unexpected warmth and depth to the citrusy sharpness of the traditional ingredients. The blend of cognac, white vermouth, and cinnamon creates a smooth, spiced sensation that is both sophisticated and inviting.
The sugar rim not only adds sweetness but also enhances the spice, making each sip a perfectly balanced taste experience.
Ingredients: Cognac 60ml, White vermouth 30ml, Orange juice 15ml, Sugar / simple syrup Teaspoon, Cinnamon Teaspoon
Here, cinnamon's versatility is showcased through its ability to complement both the sweetness of pineapple juice and the sharpness of tequila.
Here, cinnamon's versatility is showcased through its ability to complement both the sweetness of pineapple juice and the sharpness of tequila. The cinnamon, along with vanilla liqueur, adds a layer of spicy warmth that makes this cocktail intriguingly complex.
It's a drink that marries the vibrancy of tropical flavors with the grounded, earthy notes of cinnamon, creating a unique and memorable libation perfect for any season.
Ingredients: Tequila blanco 45ml, Vanilla liqueur 15ml, Lime juice 15ml, Pineapple juice 45ml, Cinnamon syrup 7.5ml, Sugar 2 Tablespoons, Cinnamon Tablespoon
This Scandinavian-inspired cocktail brings out the best of winter flavors, combining the richness of red wine with the aromatic complexity of cinnamon and other spices.
This Scandinavian-inspired cocktail brings out the best of winter flavors, combining the richness of red wine with the aromatic complexity of cinnamon and other spices. The cinnamon stick here is more than an ingredient; it's a vessel that imparts depth and warmth, enhancing the clove and cardamom for a truly festive blend.
It's a drink that encapsulates the essence of winter and the joy of sharing a warmly spiced beverage with loved ones.
Ingredients: Red wine 750ml, Ginger Teaspoon, Sugar 90ml, Cinnamon Stick, Cloves 15, Cardamom pods 6
1. Winter pimms punch
This concoction is a wonderful melding of fruitiness and spice, perfect for cold evenings or festive gatherings. Brandy and Pimm's No.
1 create a robust base, enveloped by the natural sweetness of apple juice and fresh fruits. The key ingredient, however, is the cinnamon, which infuses the punch with a warm, comforting aroma and flavor that ties all other elements together beautifully.
Beyond its delicious taste, this cocktail is steeped in tradition, often found warming hands and hearts during winter celebrations.
Ingredients
Method
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- If serving warm, combine the brandy, Pimm’s, apple juice, orange, apple and cinnamon in a large pan, heat but do not let it boil or simmer
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- Then, combine all ingredients in a sturdy pitcher
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- If serving cold, combine all ingredients into a pitcher or punch bowl with lots of ice and stir well before serving
2. Tiger’s Milk
Here, cinnamon plays a delicate yet definitive role in balancing the rich flavors of cognac and cream. The pinch of cinnamon, combined with vanilla and a hint of sugar syrup, lends a comforting spice that complements the creamy texture and slightly sweet profile of the cocktail.
Egg white adds a silky frothiness, rounding out the drink into a smooth, luxurious libation. This cocktail is a testament to the finesse in using spices in mixology, showcasing how a pinch can elevate a drink from good to exquisite.
Ingredients
Method
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- Add all the ingredients to a cocktail shaker with ice and shake well
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- Strain into an ice-filled lowball glass
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- Sprinkle over the top some ground nutmeg to garnish and serve
3. Santa's Stiff Hot Chocolate
Imagine the ultimate comfort of a warm, chocolatey drink on a chilly night, now add a hint of sophistication with dark rum, and elevate it with the spice of cinnamon. This cocktail brings together the richness of hot chocolate with a spirited kick, while the cinnamon stick not only adds a festive aroma but also infuses the drink with its distinct, warming spice.
This concoction is more than a beverage; it's an experience, reminiscent of holiday joy and cozy evenings by the fire.
Ingredients
Method
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- In a saucepan over a low heat, add the milk, honey, sugar and one cinnamon stick
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- Grate the chocolate into this mix and cook until the chocolate has melted
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- Add a couple of drop of vanilla essence and the rum
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- Whisk up the mixture before straining into the glass
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- Garnish by floating some mini marshmallows on top and serve
4. Mulled Wine
In this drink, cinnamon's role is subtle yet impactful, harmonizing with the earthy nutmeg, aromatic cloves, and citrus notes to create a deeply comforting and complex flavor profile. The infusion of these spices with red wine and a touch of honey makes for a rich, soul-warming cocktail that’s reminiscent of ancient traditions and gatherings.
It's a classic example of how spices can transform simple ingredients into a celebratory concoction that brings people together.
Ingredients
Method
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- Warm an Irish coffee glass, then pour in all ingredients and stir
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- Top up with boiling water, garnish with a cinnamon stick and serve
5. Rudolph's Red Nose
This vibrant concoction is a festive fusion of flavors where cinnamon shines as the star spice. It balances the sweetness of cranberry and orange juices with the boldness of red wine and Triple Sec, offering a sip that's both refreshing and comforting.
The cinnamon stick subtly infuses the drink, providing a warm, spicy undertone that ties the diverse flavors together, embodying the spirit of holiday celebrations in a glass.
Ingredients
Method
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- In a large pan, heat the red wine, triple sec, orange juice, cranberry juice, sugar syrup and cinnamon for about seven minutes or until it begins to steam
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- Take off the heat, add the almond extract and brown sugar and keep stirring until they are dissolved
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- Serve in latte glasses or mugs
6. Mulled Cider
This cocktail elevates traditional cider with a rich blend of spices, where cinnamon takes center stage, imbuing the drink with its warm, aromatic essence. Paired with nutmeg, cloves, and a vanilla pod, it creates a harmoniously spiced cider that's perfect for autumn evenings.
The addition of fresh oranges and pomegranate provides a hint of sweetness and tartness, making this drink a heartwarming choice for any cozy gathering.
Ingredients
Method
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- Put the cider into a pan with all the spices and the juices of the fruits
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- Bring to the boil and then allow to simmer for five minutes
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- Sweeten with sugar to taste
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- Garnish with a star anise and cinnamon stick, and serve
7. Glühwein
Steeped in tradition, this drink showcases cinnamon in its most celebratory form. The spice's sweet and warm notes are a perfect match for the deep richness of red wine and brandy, creating a drink that's both invigorating and comforting.
The cloves and lemon add a bright contrast, making every sip a complex journey of flavors. It's a testament to the timeless appeal of mulled wine and the central role of spices like cinnamon in creating festive beverages.
Ingredients
Method
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- Pour the red wine into a large pot and begin heating over low heat (don't boil)
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- Add cinnamon sticks, cloves, sugar, and star anise
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- Heat thoroughly, then add the oranges slices and the chopped whole lemon
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- Simmer the mixture about 45 minutes over low heat, again making sure not to boil
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- Strain into prewarmed glasses or mugs
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- Garnish with orange slices or a cinnamon stick and serve hot
8. Winter Sidecar
This cocktail is a wintery twist on the classic sidecar, with cinnamon adding an unexpected warmth and depth to the citrusy sharpness of the traditional ingredients. The blend of cognac, white vermouth, and cinnamon creates a smooth, spiced sensation that is both sophisticated and inviting.
The sugar rim not only adds sweetness but also enhances the spice, making each sip a perfectly balanced taste experience.
Ingredients
Method
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- Roll the rim of the cocktail glass in some sugar syrup
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- Once moist, roll the rim in the cinnamon to create a cinnamon rim to the glass
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- Add the cognac, bianco vermouth and clementine juice in a cocktail shaker with ice and shake well
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- Strain into the rimmed cocktail glass
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- Garnish with a sprig of rosemary to awaken the senses, and serve
9. La Pinela
Here, cinnamon's versatility is showcased through its ability to complement both the sweetness of pineapple juice and the sharpness of tequila. The cinnamon, along with vanilla liqueur, adds a layer of spicy warmth that makes this cocktail intriguingly complex.
It's a drink that marries the vibrancy of tropical flavors with the grounded, earthy notes of cinnamon, creating a unique and memorable libation perfect for any season.
Ingredients
Method
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- Rim a lowball glass by wiping a lime wedge around the rim of the glass, then dipping it into the cinnamon and sugar powder mix
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- Next shake up the remaining ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice and strain into the lowball glass
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- Garnish with a lime wedge and serve
10. Glogg
This Scandinavian-inspired cocktail brings out the best of winter flavors, combining the richness of red wine with the aromatic complexity of cinnamon and other spices. The cinnamon stick here is more than an ingredient; it's a vessel that imparts depth and warmth, enhancing the clove and cardamom for a truly festive blend.
It's a drink that encapsulates the essence of winter and the joy of sharing a warmly spiced beverage with loved ones.
Ingredients
Method
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- Add the red wine, sugar, ginger, cinnamon stick, cloves and cardamom into a suitable large saucepan and heat slowly until the flavours have all infused
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- Do not let the mixture boil
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- Ladle into quirky Christmas mugs or latte glasses, garnish with orange peel and serve
Conclusion
Selecting the top 10 cocktails that showcase cinnamon was no small feat given its popularity and versatility in mixology.
These drinks were chosen not just for their delightful flavor profiles but also for how they highlight cinnamon's unique ability to blend with various spirits and ingredients, creating beverages that are memorable and enjoyable. Each cocktail in this list serves as a testament to the spice’s adaptability, enhancing spirits ranging from brandy to tequila, and creating a sensorial experience that spans the globe from traditional mulled beverages to innovative modern mixtures. Moreover, the chosen cocktails exemplify the creativity of mixology, turning the simple act of enjoying a drink into an exploration of flavors and cultures.
Cinnamon's timeless appeal and its ability to elevate a drink into something special is the reason these cocktails are regarded as the best.
More about Cinnamon
What is the most popular cocktail made with cinnamon?
Based on our cocktail list, Winter Pimm’s Punch is the most popular cinnamon cocktail. Cinnamon is typically used to add warming spice, often as a garnish or infused element that complements the drink’s fruity, seasonal profile.
What ingredients pair well with cinnamon in cocktails?
Cinnamon pairs especially well with apple, citrus (like orange), honey, vanilla, and chocolate for a warm, rounded flavour. It also works nicely with dark spirits such as rum and whisky, and with wintery serves like hot chocolate or mulled wine.
How many cocktails can you make with cinnamon?
You can make 43 cocktails with cinnamon in our database. It’s a versatile ingredient that shows up across punches, hot drinks, and spiced spirit-forward recipes.
What is cinnamon and what does it taste like in cocktails?
Cinnamon is an aromatic spice made from the inner bark of cinnamon trees, used in cocktails as a garnish, syrup, or infusion. In drinks it tastes warm, sweetly spiced, and slightly woody, adding depth and a comforting finish.
Explore even more about Cinnamon
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