Vietnamese cinnamon — the bold, high-oil cassia we grow in Lao Cai — is far more versatile than most people realise. Its concentrated 3–5% essential-oil content means a little goes a long way, in the kitchen and well beyond it. Here are ten everyday ways our family actually uses it.
10 Everyday Uses for Vietnamese Cinnamon
1. Vietnamese coffee & everyday brews
A pinch of ground cinnamon stirred into phin coffee, or a stick simmered in the pot, adds warm depth without extra sugar. See our full Vietnamese coffee with cinnamon recipe.
2. Oatmeal, porridge & breakfast bowls
Dust powder over oats, yoghurt or fruit. The robust flavour cuts through richness and needs no added sweetener.
3. Baking — cakes, rolls & cookies
Because our cassia is stronger than supermarket cinnamon, use slightly less than a recipe calls for. Ideal for cinnamon rolls, banana bread and spiced cookies.
4. Savoury stews & braises
A whole cassia stick deepens beef stew, curry and Vietnamese phở broth. Add early and remove before serving.
5. Mulled wine & spiced drinks
Sticks are perfect for slow infusions — mulled wine, spiced cider and hot toddies. They release oils gradually and can be reused once.
6. Cinnamon tea
Steep a stick in hot water for a caffeine-free warming drink, on its own or with ginger and honey.
7. Golden milk & smoothies
Blend powder into turmeric lattes, milkshakes and smoothies for warmth and aroma.
8. Natural air freshener
Simmer sticks with citrus peel on the stove, or tuck them into cupboards and drawers. See our natural cinnamon air freshener guide.
9. Spice blends & rubs
Cinnamon is a backbone of five-spice, garam masala and BBQ rubs. Grind fresh from sticks for the strongest aroma.
10. Homemade gifts
Tie sticks into bundles, add to gift baskets or infuse into honey and butter for a thoughtful, aromatic present.
Sticks or powder — which to use?
- Whole sticks — best for slow infusions (tea, broth, mulled drinks) and longer shelf life.
- Ground powder — best for baking, coffee, oatmeal and quick everyday cooking.
Learn more in our Vietnamese cinnamon powder guide and how to use cinnamon sticks.
Ready to experience authentic Vietnamese cinnamon? Explore our Vietnamese Cassia Sticks (Whole Quills) and Cassia Powder — hand-harvested and shipped direct from our family farm in Lao Cai. Learn more about our story.