Canela Mexican cinnamon brings back memories of cozy mornings and homemade comfort. This sweet, delicate spice simmering on the stove meant something special was cooking. Softer and more fragrant than the common variety, canela Mexican cinnamon adds a warm, gentle flavor to teas, desserts, and even savory dishes. It’s not just an ingredient—it’s tradition.
What Is Canela?
Canela is the Spanish word for cinnamon, but in Mexican cooking, it refers specifically to Ceylon cinnamon, also known as true cinnamon.
Unlike the common cassia cinnamon found in most grocery stores, canela Mexican cinnamon is softer, lighter in flavor, and easier to break. It’s widely used in Mexican and Latin American cuisines, where it adds warmth to both sweet and savory dishes.
This variety is prized for its delicate layers, sweet aroma, and subtle clove-like notes—making it a favorite in traditional recipes across generations.
Canela vs Other Types of Cinnamon
Not all cinnamon is the same. Let’s break it down by asking the right questions:
What is Canela (Ceylon Cinnamon)?
- Origin: Sri Lanka
- Flavor: Mild, sweet, with hints of clove
- Texture: Soft, thin layers; crumbles easily
- Use: Common in Mexican and Latin American recipes
- Bonus: Contains more eugenol, which gives it a pleasant aroma and less bitterness
Chinese Cassia Cinnamon?
- Flavor: Strong, spicy, slightly bitter
- Texture: Hard, thick bark; curls tightly
- Use: Most common in U.S. supermarkets
- Note: Higher in coumarin (should be consumed in moderation)
Vietnamese Saigon Cinnamon?
- Flavor: Very bold and spicy
- Texture: Hard and dense
- Use: Great for strong-flavored desserts
Indonesian Korintje Cinnamon?
- Flavor: Mild and smooth
- Texture: Softer than cassia
- Use: Popular in commercial baking
Key Point
Canela Mexican cinnamon stands out for its sweet, gentle flavor and soft texture. It’s the best choice when you want cinnamon that enhances—not overpowers—your dish.
What Does Mexican Cinnamon Taste Like?
Canela Mexican cinnamon is often described as “cinnamon-lite.”
Its flavor is mild, sweet, and aromatic—with soft hints of vanilla and clove.
Unlike cassia, which can be sharp and spicy, canela offers a gentle warmth without bitterness.
This makes it ideal for recipes where you want cinnamon to complement, not dominate, the other flavors.
Its smooth taste is why it’s a favorite in traditional Mexican dishes, from café de olla to arroz con leche.
How Is Canela Used in Cooking?
Canela Mexican cinnamon is a versatile spice used in both sweet and savory dishes. Here’s how it shows up across Mexican cuisine:
Desserts Using Canela
- Churros – Rolled in cinnamon sugar
- Capirotada – A traditional bread pudding
- Buñuelos – Crispy fritters with a dusting of canela
- Orejitas – Puffy, flaky pastries
- Wedding cookies – Buttery cookies dusted with powdered sugar and cinnamon
Breakfast Dishes Including Mexican Cinnamon
- Atole de vainilla – A warm, thick corn drink
- Gorditas de azúcar – Sweet griddled cakes
- Arroz con leche – Creamy rice pudding with a cinnamon stick
- Avena (Mexican oatmeal) – Flavored with milk and canela
What Savory Recipes Use Canela?
- Cinnamon apple pork chops – A sweet-savory blend
- Chicken mole – Rich, complex sauces often include a touch of canela
Holiday Recipes Featuring Mexican Cinnamon
- Ponche navideño – A warm Christmas punch with fruits and spices
- Polvorones – Shortbread cookies with a cinnamon twist
- Biscochos – Cinnamon-spiced cookies for celebrations
What Drinks Are Made with Canela?
- Té de canela – A simple cinnamon tea
- Agua de jamaica – Often paired with canela for depth
- Calientito – A warm pear cider
- Horchata – Creamy rice drink with cinnamon
- Mexican hot chocolate – Rich and spiced with canela
- Café de olla – Traditional coffee brewed with canela and piloncillo
Are There Other Ways to Use Canela?
- Cocktail stirrers – Add aroma and flavor
- Simmer pots – For a cozy home scent
- Holiday décor – Natural and fragrant
What Are the Health Benefits of Canela?
Beyond its comforting aroma and sweet taste, canela Mexican cinnamon offers several health perks. Here’s why it’s more than just a kitchen staple:
To begin with, canela is rich in antioxidants that help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.
In addition, it contains essential minerals like manganese, which supports bone health and metabolism.
Moreover, canela may help stabilize blood sugar levels, making it especially useful for people managing diabetes or insulin sensitivity.
It also acts as an anti-inflammatory, helping reduce swelling and pain throughout the body.
As if that weren’t enough, canela is believed to support:
- Heart health by lowering cholesterol
- Brain function and memory
- Immune defense by fighting bacteria and infections
- Digestive health, easing gas, nausea, and bloating
In summary, adding canela to your daily routine can be a delicious way to boost your overall wellness.
Where Can You Buy Mexican Cinnamon?
Finding canela Mexican cinnamon is easier than you might think.
First and foremost, your best bet is a Mexican or Latin grocery store. There, you’ll often find it sold in plastic baggies instead of spice jars. This form is typically fresher, more fragrant, and more affordable.
If local options are limited, you can also buy canela online. Retailers like Amazon, MexGrocer, and specialty spice shops offer authentic Ceylon cinnamon sticks labeled as “canela.”
Before purchasing, check the product label. Look for “Ceylon cinnamon” or “Cinnamomum verum” to make sure you’re getting the real deal—not cassia.
Frequently Asked Questions About Canela
If you can’t find canela Mexican cinnamon, you can use cassia cinnamon in small amounts. However, it has a stronger, spicier flavor, so adjust accordingly.
Yes, in moderate culinary amounts, canela is considered safe. However, avoid high doses or supplements without consulting a healthcare provider
No. Canela is naturally caffeine-free, making it a great choice for evening teas and caffeine-sensitive individuals.
Canela typically refers to Ceylon cinnamon, which is grown in Sri Lanka, but widely used in Mexican cuisine and Latin America.
Most McCormick ground cinnamon is cassia, not Ceylon. Check the label or contact the manufacturer for clarity.