x 2-inch cinnamon stick

Cinnamon stick is the dried, curled inner bark of trees belonging to the genus Cinnamomum, primarily Cinnamomum verum (true cinnamon, Ceylon cinnamon) and Cinnamomum cassia (cassia cinnamon). The bark is harvested, dried, and naturally curls into quill-like tubes as moisture evaporates. True cinnamon sticks are thinner, lighter in color (tan to golden), with a more delicate, complex flavor profile featuring sweetness, subtle heat, and woodsy notes. Cassia cinnamon sticks are thicker, darker reddish-brown, and more assertively sweet and spicy. Cinnamon sticks measure 2-3 inches in typical commercial forms and are composed of multiple layers of dried bark rolled together.

Cinnamon sticks are used primarily in infusions, simmered dishes, and beverages where their flavor gradually releases into liquid. Common applications include spiced teas, mulled wine, broths, rice pilafs, curries, and braised meats in Middle Eastern and Indian cuisines. The stick can be steeped in hot water, simmered in soups and stews, or placed in rice cooking water to infuse subtle warmth. They are also used in sweet applications such as poached fruit compotes, coffee drinks, and chocolate preparations. The stick form allows for easy removal before serving and provides more controlled flavor infusion than ground cinnamon.