Cinnamon is one of the most beloved spices in the world. There are two primary forms of cinnamon: bark and sticks. Both come from the same source, i.e., the inner bark of Cinnamomum trees, but they differ in flavor profile, texture, and culinary applications.
Cinnamon bark consists of large, rugged pieces with a stronger and more intense flavor, often used for flavoring curries and stews. Cinnamon sticks, also known as cinnamon quills, are tightly rolled pieces of bark that add a subtle, aromatic sweetness to recipes. This post highlights the distinctions between cinnamon bark and sticks. Explore these differences to understand their respective uses and benefits.
What Is Cinnamon Bark?
Cinnamon bark refers to the raw, unprocessed pieces of the inner bark of the cinnamon tree. Once harvesters gather the cinnamon, they may sell it as large, flat strips or break it into small chips for various uses. Cinnamon bark pieces are typically flat or slightly curled with a rough texture. Their thickness depends on the type of cinnamon—Ceylon or cassia.
Cinnamon bark is commonly used in chip form to flavor stews, soups, and beverages like mulled wine and tea. It is also ground into powder for use in spice blends, cooking, and baking.
What Is a Cinnamon Stick or Cinnamon Quill?
As the name suggests, cinnamon quills are cigar-like rolls of cinnamon. Thin layers of the inner bark are rolled into tubular shapes to make cinnamon sticks. Producers carefully process these sticks to ensure uniform size and shape for convenience in cooking. Cinnamon sticks are long, cylindrical, and smooth, with a more refined appearance compared to raw bark.
Cinnamon sticks are often used to infuse flavor into liquids such as broths, hot chocolates, and mulled wine. They are also placed in cooking pots to flavor rice dishes and sauces. Due to their unique appearance, cinnamon sticks are also popular in potpourri and culinary crafts.
Differences Between Cinnamon Barks and Cinnamon Sticks
Here are some key points that distinguish cinnamon bark from cinnamon sticks:
- Form and Preparation: Cinnamon bark is the raw, minimally processed inner bark. Cinnamon sticks, on the other hand, are made by rolling the inner bark into tubular shapes.
- Uses: Cinnamon bark, in its raw form, is versatile and often ground into powder for use in cooking. Cinnamon sticks are commonly used to infuse flavors into liquids.
- Appearance: Cinnamon barks are flat and rough, while cinnamon sticks are smooth and cylindrical.
Different Types of Cinnamon
Both cinnamon bark and sticks can come from different varieties of cinnamon trees:
- Cassia Cinnamon: Cassia cinnamon barks and sticks are thicker and coarser, with a stronger, spicier flavor.
- Ceylon Cinnamon: Barks and sticks from Ceylon cinnamon are thinner and known for their milder, sweeter flavor. Ceylon quills often have multiple layers.
Understanding the differences between cinnamon bark and cinnamon sticks can help you choose the appropriate form for your culinary needs. By incorporating these distinctions, you can maximize the flavor and versatility of this beloved spice.